Who: Frank Greene
Where: San Jose, California
What: Frank S. Greene, Jr. (1938–2009) was a trailblazer in the fields of technology, business, and education, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneering electronics technologist, venture capitalist, and community advocate. Born in Washington, D.C., Greene earned a B.S. in electrical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis (1961), an M.S. from Purdue University (1962), and a Ph.D. from Santa Clara University (1970), equipping him with the expertise to become a transformative figure in the tech industry.
During his service as an Electronics Officer in the U.S. Air Force, Greene worked on high-performance computers for the National Security Agency, contributing to advances in national defense technology. In 1965, he joined Fairchild Semiconductor, where his work on a patented memory chip design set new speed benchmarks and solidified the company’s reputation as a leader in the semiconductor industry. Greene’s integrated circuit innovation was pivotal, driving technological advancements in computing and laying the foundation for Silicon Valley’s rise as a global tech hub.
In 1971, Greene transitioned to entrepreneurship as the founding CEO of Technology Development Corporation, which grew from a small startup to a thriving company with over 300 employees and $30 million in annual revenue by 1985. Later, he founded Zero One Systems, Inc., and in 1993, he launched New Vista Capital, a venture capital firm that supported technology startups, particularly those led by underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Greene also dedicated himself to education, teaching electrical engineering and computer sciences at prestigious institutions like Stanford University and Howard University. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he served on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards, championing both technological innovation and social equity.
A recipient of numerous honors, including induction into the Silicon Valley Hall of Fame, Greene’s achievements reflect his visionary leadership and commitment to empowering others. His legacy endures through his contributions to technology, business, and the broader community.
Dr. Frank S. Greene Jr.. Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering - Purdue University. (n.d.). https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE/Alums/OECE/1999/greene.html
The HistoryMakers. (n.d.). Frank Greene, Jr.'s biography. https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/frank-greene-jr