January 16

Born in Clermont-Ferrand in 1853, André Michelin and his brother Édouard founded the Michelin Tyre Company in 1889. He invented the removable pneumatic tire and introduced innovations that revolutionized automobile travel. Under his leadership, Michelin developed the Michelin Guide and map distribution to promote motoring. The company expanded globally and became a leader in rubber manufacturing and automotive services. Michelin’s commitment to quality and marketing ingenuity set industry standards. He died in 1931, leaving a legacy of technological progress and brand prestige.

Born in 1870, Jüri Jaakson played a pivotal role in Estonia's early statehood, balancing careers in business and government. Serving as State Elder from 1924 to 1925, he also chaired the Bank of Estonia, guiding the young republic's financial policies. He held key ministerial posts, including labor and foreign affairs, shaping national legislation during turbulent times. His leadership strengthened Estonia's institutions before the Soviet occupation. Arrested in 1941, Jaakson died in exile in 1942, remembered as a founding statesman of modern Estonia.

Born in Eureka, Utah, Zamboni moved to California and founded a refrigeration business. Frustrated by the difficulty of maintaining ice rinks, he invented the first ice resurfacing machine in 1949. He patented the design and established the Zamboni Company in Paramount, California. His machine revolutionized ice sports by making rink maintenance faster and more efficient. Zamboni machines became the standard in ice arenas worldwide. Frank Zamboni died in 1988, leaving a lasting impact on ice sport facilities.

Born in 1917, Carl Karcher started his career as a hot dog vendor in Los Angeles. In the 1950s, he opened his first drive-in restaurant, which later became the Carl’s Jr. chain known for its charbroiled burgers. Under his leadership, the company expanded nationwide and became an iconic name in fast food. Karcher was recognized for his hands-on management and dedication to quality ingredients. His innovative approach helped shape the modern fast-food industry. He passed away in 2008, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurship and brand building.

Born in 1949 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Anne F. Beiler launched Auntie Anne's in 1988 after perfecting a hand-rolled pretzel recipe at a local farmer’s market. Under her leadership, the company expanded rapidly into shopping malls and airports, growing into a global franchise with thousands of outlets. Beiler is celebrated for her hands-on management style and commitment to product quality, building a brand synonymous with fresh, soft pretzels. She has authored books on her personal and professional journey and supports charitable causes focused on women's empowerment and entrepreneurship.

Born in Riga, Andris Šķēle founded the Skonto Group, which became one of Latvia’s largest business conglomerates. He first entered government as Prime Minister in 1995, leading economic reforms and privatization efforts after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Šķēle returned to the premiership in 1999, focusing on attracting foreign investment and stabilizing Latvia’s emerging market economy. His tenure was characterized by rapid growth but also sparked debates over transparency and governance standards. After leaving office, Šķēle remained a prominent entrepreneur, shaping Latvia’s private sector development. His dual legacy as a reformist leader and business leader has made him a key figure in Latvia’s post-independence history.