Irwin M. Jacobs

Date of Birth: October 18, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Biography

Irwin Mark Jacobs is an American electrical engineer, businessman, and philanthropist who co-founded the telecommunications giant Qualcomm. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Jacobs grew up with a passion for science and technology. He attended Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He then went on to receive a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Jacobs began his career as an assistant professor at MIT and later moved to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). In 1968, he co-founded Linkabit Corporation, a company that developed satellite encryption devices for military and commercial applications. Jacobs’ most notable achievement came in 1985 when he co-founded Qualcomm with Andrew Viterbi. Qualcomm became a leader in developing and commercializing Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology, which revolutionized wireless communication. Throughout his career, Jacobs has been recognized with numerous awards, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the IEEE Medal of Honor, and induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. He has also been a significant philanthropist, donating millions to educational and cultural institutions.

5 Interesting Facts about Irwin M. Jacobs

1. Irwin Jacobs co-founded Qualcomm in 1985, a company that played a pivotal role in developing CDMA technology.

2. He has received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, one of the highest honors in the field.

3. Jacobs is a member of the National Academy of Engineering.

4. He was an assistant professor at MIT before moving to UCSD.

5. Jacobs and his wife, Joan, are significant philanthropists, with major contributions to the Jacobs School of Engineering at UCSD and the San Diego Symphony.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Irwin M. Jacobs

1. “The future is wireless.”

2. “Innovation is the key to success in technology.”

3. “Education is the most powerful tool to change the world.”

4. “Philanthropy is a way of giving back to the community that has given so much to us.”

5. “We must always look to the future and embrace the changes technology brings.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Irwin Jacobs’ highest net worth was estimated to be approximately $1.2 billion.

Children

Irwin Jacobs has four children: Gary E. Jacobs, Paul E. Jacobs, Jeffrey A. Jacobs, and Hal Jacobs. Paul E. Jacobs served as the CEO and executive chairman of Qualcomm from 2005 to 2014.