Bill Gates
When you hear the name Bill Gates, you immediately link him to the multimillion dollar empire he has made from Microsoft. However, he is really a very down to Earth guy who says his favorite restaurant to eat at is McDonald’s. Bill Gates has used his knowledge to provide us with technology to enjoy computers on a whole new level both for work and for fun. He is also dedicated to helping children learn more about computer programming and has donated millions of dollars for education programs and to pay for computers in schools that wouldn’t be able to afford them otherwise.
Bill Gates, born William Henry Gates III on October 28, 1955 has been recognized as the richest person in the world. He has held this position since 1995. Imagine being only 40 years old and the richest person in the world. His net worth is estimated at $60 billion. However, Gates is more involved with technology and promoting the advances of his software than with his wealth.
Gates has been involved in some court issues relating to his fortune though. This is due to some competitors claiming Gates is able to engage in unfair marketing practices due to his wealth. Gates holds the position that he is merely selling his software for an affordable price so that people of all economic levels can afford to purchase it. He claims it has nothing to do with cutting the competition.
Gates has also been recognized for his wonderful treatment of his employees. It is said that Microsoft is one of the best corporations to work for regardless of the position you hold within the company. Many people are able to move forward in Microsoft and turn their job into a life long career.
Internet hacking has become quite an issue in recent years, and Microsoft has a very dedicated team to continually update and monitor security issues. Gates took a very unique approach as well by challenging hackers to beat his programs with the winner receiving a very large cash reward for explaining how they were able to do it. Gates felt this was a good way to find out just how secure the programs were.
Regardless of anyone’s personal opinion of Microsoft or the business tactics of Gates, no one can argue about his generosity. He is well known for his philanthropy, donating millions of dollars to help with research programs and education programs. In 2000 the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was established. Some of their projects include AIDS awareness and research and education programs. This foundation donated $29 million dollars in 2000 alone for worthy projects.
