Venture Capital in the Global Digital Age

Speaker: Dr. Henry Kressel
Warburg PincusAbstract: Everybody knows that digital technology has revolutionized our economy and our lifestyles. But how many of us really understand the drivers behind the technology - the significance of going digital; the miniaturization of electronic devices; the role of venture capital in financing the revolution; the importance of research and development? How many of us understand what it takes to make money from innovative technologies? Should we worry about manufacturing going offshore? What is the role of India and China in the digital economy? Drawing on a lifetime's experience in the industry, as an engineer, a senior manager, and as a partner in a global venture capital firm, Henry Kressel offers an expert personalized answer to all these questions. He explains how the technology works, why it matters, how it is financed, and what the key lessons are for public policy.Biography: Dr. Henry Kressel joined Warburg Pincus in 1983 where he focuses on technology and communications investments. Previously, he was the Vice President at the RCA Laboratories responsible for the worldwide research and development of microelectronics, power electronics and associated software. Dr. Kressel holds 31 U.S. patents covering various electronic and optoelectronic devices. He pioneered the development and commercial introduction of the first semiconductor lasers, which are the basis of fiber optic communications systems, DVDs and other consumer, industrial and military products. He is the co-author of a text with J. K. Butler, "Semiconductor Lasers and Heterojunction LEDs," Academic Press, 1977 and author with T.V. Lento of "Competing for the Future: How Digital Technologies are Changing the World," Cambridge University Press, 2007. He is the recipient of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE) David Sarnoff Award for contributions to electronic devices. A graduate of Yeshiva College, Dr. Kressel received an M.S. from Harvard University, an M.B.A. from The Wharton School and a doctorate in engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. He received an honorary doctorate degree from Yeshiva University. He is an elected member of the National Academy of Engineering and is the founding president of IEEE Laser and Electro-Optics Society. Dr. Kressel has served in an advisory capacity to NASA, the U.S. Air Force and the National Science Foundation. He is on the Boards of Sarnoff Corporation, SRI International, Telcordia Technologies, Inc., RMI Corporation, and is a trustee of Yeshiva University.Hosts: Alan Willner, EEB 538, x04664, willner@usc.edu

Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 248

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: Gerrielyn Ramos