The year was 1977 – three young and upco…
The year was 1977 – three young and upcoming programmers from Ampex (producers of digital storage systems) took a risk and branched off to start their own company. One of them was Lawrence J. Ellison
Serving as Chief executive officer from the beginning, Larry Ellison has been a man with far reaching dreams. When the company was awarded a contract from the CIA to produce a program allowing “relational database management” they developed a revolutionary software – code name Oracle.
Oracle has since been integrated into IBM operating systems and made available for public consumers. They have also become the overseers of the open source Java programming script. The recent launch of their Oracle Academy has provided a means for students, both secondary and tertiary, to be exposed to the Java fundamentals and programming for no cost or a nominal yearly fee. Fostering early student interest in computer science and programming in over forty countries. The company has come a long ways, and surpassed expectations, as has it’s founder.
Born to a single mother in the Bronx, he was subsequently adopted by family. His Uncle and Aunt raised him in a very modest, lower-income environment. And although his natural aptitude for science and math was identified early, he clashed with formal education dropping out of both the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois. Like many other successful entrepreneurs, Larry emerged from a disadvantaged background and was decidedly rebellious as a youngster. As an adult he openly seeks the thrill of physical adventures.
Research into Oracle Academy has brought to light the altruistic aspects and community-minded commitments of this software giant. Their team seems genuinely interested in promoting ways for computing to be brought to the next generation by producing savvy and relative educational opportunities. It is also a good marketing strategy, ensuring that future leaders in the tech field have a familiarity with the company’s software platform.
kstackhouse 8:07 am on September 27, 2012 Permalink | Log in to Reply
Interesting post. Thank you for sharing about his childhood. It is interesting to see how so many people are able to excel when they don’t fit the mold of the traditional educational setting. Universities haven’t changed much since their inception. It is interesting to see how institutions are now trying to adapt to the changing needs of today’s young students and life-long learners that continue to pursue education.
Ranvir 10:12 pm on September 27, 2012 Permalink | Log in to Reply
It was good to know more about the background of Larry Ellison, CEO of this successful database management company. It is indeed inspiring to know how about his giant leap to set up a successful company and realize his dreams even though he comes from a disadvantaged background. This shows his passion and hunger for success which I feel is a necessary ingredient for realizing our venture.
lullings 3:05 pm on September 29, 2012 Permalink | Log in to Reply
I am always secretly delighted when I hear of one of Larry’s (yes Larry!!!!) purchases – 400ft+ yachts, investments in the Volvo Oceans Race, buying a Hawaiian Island. Finally a billionaire that is having a bit of fun and splashing out on some toys. Interesting about his modest upbringing, I wonder does that give him some nonchalance about cash?
Thanks for the background info p.
Stuart