A Tribute to my Mom: To the Woman Who Inspired My Tech Journey

In the vibrant late 1960s, my mother was featured in an advertisement for the Florida Electronics Data School, Computer Programming College. It was an era when this institution was pioneering education in data processing, offering courses that utilized the most sophisticated IBM and Honeywell computers of the time—machines also employed by America's leading corporations.

In the advertisement, my mom was depicted skillfully managing a computer that, back then, symbolized the future. This image not only showcased her early pioneering spirit but also hinted at the path her life would take—a path that would deeply influence my own. Her enthusiasm for technology was generously passed down to me, propelling me into the tech world with a passion that seemed to know no bounds.

Even today, as I help her troubleshoot her iCloud or gently tease her about her 79,000+ unopened emails, her influence on me is undeniable and profound. This Mother's Day, I want to honor her and all the mothers out there who tirelessly nurture their children's dreams.

Following her trailblazing days at the college, she took on a part-time role at IBM in the early '80s, balancing her career with motherhood. This was a significant era for IBM, especially with the release of the personal computer at their Boca Raton headquarters—right in our own backyard. We were fortunate to have an IBM PC Junior at home. I vividly recall, as a precocious four-year-old, my fearless exploration of this new technology. As I grew, so did our technology at home; we later upgraded to a PS2 with a 20MB hard drive. My evenings as a child often involved a playful struggle between my reluctance to leave the computer and her gentle reminders that it was time for bed.

My fascination with technology only grew as I aged, spending endless hours in computer stores, my imagination captivated by the potential of each piece of hardware and software. From the era of keypunch machines to the brink of quantum computing, my mother has witnessed an extraordinary evolution in technology. Throughout these years, she probably captured hundreds of photos of me, each image freezing a moment where I was engrossed with a computer or some gadget, documenting her ceaseless support.

Her encouragement has been a steady and vital force throughout every stage of my life. This was especially evident during the challenging early days of launching my first company. I vividly remember a particularly tough incident in the mid-2000s—a sweltering day during a trip to Chicago. My office's server room air conditioning had failed, a critical issue that needed immediate attention to prevent damage to the equipment. Despite the technical nature of the problem, my mom insisted on coming along to the office. Her presence was not just about offering a helping hand; it was a profound gesture of solidarity. As we entered the noisy server room, she lightened the mood by jokingly asking, 'Is that beeping sound supposed to do that?' Her playful inquiry amidst the tension not only brought a smile to my face but also reminded me of her unwavering belief in my ability to overcome challenges. It was a moment that reinforced her readiness to support me, come what may, and exemplified how her involvement extended beyond mere words to tangible, meaningful actions.

Even today, as I help her troubleshoot her iCloud or gently tease her about her 79,000+ unopened emails, her influence on me is undeniable and profound. This Mother's Day, I want to honor her and all the mothers out there who tirelessly nurture their children's dreams. To my mom and every mom who has stood as the quiet backbone of their child's endeavors, your love and support do not just shape individual lives—they mold the future. Happy Mother's Day, Mom. Thank you for everything. And to all the moms out there, your love and support continue to transform the world. Thank you for being our greatest champions.

Below is the full brochure featuring my mom from the 1960s.