February 17

Aaron Montgomery Ward revolutionized American retail in 1872 by launching the nation's first mail-order business, Montgomery Ward. His innovative catalogs allowed rural customers to purchase a wide range of products at fixed prices, bypassing local middlemen. This democratization of shopping helped spur the growth of mail-order giants and laid groundwork for modern e-commerce. Ward's focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction made his company an industry leader. He remained committed to fair pricing and honest business practices until his death in 1913.

Friedrich Alfred Krupp inherited and expanded the Krupp steelworks, transforming it into one of Europe’s largest industrial conglomerates. Under his leadership, the company innovated in steel production, armaments, and heavy machinery, fueling Germany’s industrial and military growth. He invested in research and development, securing patents that improved blast furnace and rolling mill technologies. Krupp also managed a vast workforce and implemented social welfare programs for employees, reflecting the paternalistic industrial relations of the era. Despite personal tragedies, his business acumen solidified the family enterprise’s global reputation. His contributions left an indelible mark on industrial history and the modernization of manufacturing.

Thomas J. Watson Sr. joined the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company in 1914 as general manager and became its president in 1915. He rebranded the company as International Business Machines (IBM) and instilled a culture of disciplined salesmanship, innovation, and employee loyalty symbolized by the motto 'THINK'. Watson expanded IBM’s product line to include punch cards, typewriters, and early computing machines, anticipating the future of data processing. He pioneered progressive labor practices, including retirement plans and training programs, to build a dedicated workforce. Under his stewardship, IBM became a world leader in business equipment, setting standards for corporate management. Watson’s vision and leadership shaped the modern technology industry.

Born in 1963 in Taiwan, Jen-Hsun 'Jensen' Huang co-founded NVIDIA in 1993. Under his leadership, NVIDIA revolutionized graphics processing and pioneered GPU-accelerated computing. The company's technologies are fundamental to gaming, professional visualization, data centers, and AI research. Huang has served as NVIDIA’s CEO and president for decades, driving its growth into a major tech powerhouse. He holds degrees in electrical engineering and is known for his visionary presentations. Huang’s work has significantly impacted computer graphics and artificial intelligence.

Born in 1963, Michael Jordan dominated the NBA for the Chicago Bulls, winning six championships and earning five MVP awards. Renowned for his scoring ability, defense, and clutch performances, he became a global sports icon. After retiring twice as a player, he returned to play and later transitioned to basketball executive roles. He became co-owner and head of basketball operations for the Charlotte Hornets. Jordan’s influence extends through his successful Air Jordan brand with Nike and numerous charitable endeavors. He remains a leading figure in sports and popular culture.

Born in 1972 in Rosario, Argentina, Valeria Mazza became one of the most sought-after supermodels of the 1990s. She graced the covers of top fashion magazines and walked runways for leading designers worldwide. In addition to modeling, Mazza co-founded design and beauty ventures, transforming her public image into a business empire. She has been recognized for her entrepreneurial spirit and contributions to Latin American fashion. Mazza continues to influence the industry as a brand ambassador and advocate for charitable causes.

Paris Hilton is an American media personality, businesswoman, socialite, and entertainer. She rose to fame with the reality series The Simple Life, showcasing her celebrity lifestyle alongside Nicole Richie. Hilton leveraged her fame to launch successful fragrance, fashion, and accessories lines worldwide. She has released electronic music, worked as a DJ at major festivals, and acted in films like House of Wax. As an author, she published a memoir and lifestyle guides that became bestsellers. Hilton is also recognized for her philanthropic work and is considered a pioneer of modern influencer culture.