Frank S. Greene, Jr. is a man of many talents and accomplishments. He is an inventor, scientist, venture capitalist investor, educator, and the first African American to graduate from the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. His contributions to the fields of technology and education have been significant, and he has inspired many with his achievements.
Born in 1947 in Danville, Virginia, Greene grew up in a segregated community where opportunities for African Americans were limited. Despite the challenges he faced, he excelled academically and was determined to pursue a career in science and technology. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 1969 and went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1971.
After completing his education, Greene began his career as an engineer at IBM, where he worked on the development of the first personal computer. He later joined Bell Labs, where he worked on the development of advanced telecommunications systems. In 1982, he founded his own company, Advanced Technology Inc., which developed cutting-edge technologies for the telecommunications industry.
In addition to his work as an inventor and entrepreneur, Greene has also been a leader in the field of venture capital. He co-founded New Vista Capital, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. He has also served as a board member for several companies, including AT&T, Cisco Systems, and Dell.
Greene’s contributions to education have been equally impressive. He has served as a professor of electrical engineering at the University of Michigan and as a visiting professor at several other universities. He has also been a mentor to many young people, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
Throughout his career, Greene has been a trailblazer and a role model for others. As the first African American to graduate from the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, he paved the way for others to follow in his footsteps. He has also been a champion for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, advocating for greater opportunities for women and people of color.
In recognition of his achievements, Greene has received numerous awards and honors. He was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2012 for his contributions to the development of telecommunications systems. He has also received the Black Engineer of the Year Award and the Distinguished Alumni Award from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Frank S. Greene, Jr. is a true pioneer in the fields of technology and education. His contributions have made a significant impact on society, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of inventors, scientists, and entrepreneurs.