Robert Noyce

Meet Intel's co-founder and the co-inventor of the integrated circuit.

Optimism is an essential ingredient of innovation. How else can the individual welcome change over security, adventure over staying in safe places?

Robert Noyce

Technologist, Entrepreneur, and Industry Leader

As a technologist, Bob Noyce was the co-inventor of the integrated circuit and held numerous patents. As an entrepreneur, he was a co-founder of both Fairchild Semiconductor and Intel Corporation. Dozens of technology companies stemmed from Shockley Semiconductor, Fairchild Semiconductor, and Intel Corporation, companies where Noyce left his unique and indelible mark.

As an industry statesman, he helped found the Semiconductor Industry Association, was a Regent of the University of California, served on the President's Commission on Industrial Competitiveness, and was the first Chief Executive Officer of SEMATECH.

Man of Many Interests

Those who knew Bob knew another side—a man who found fulfillment beyond his public stature and acclaim. He flew planes, sang madrigals, and skied treacherous slopes. He was a tinkerer, an athlete, a husband and father, and a true visionary. To honor this unique legacy, his family created the Robert Noyce Foundation.