Technological innovations drive many system processes in just about every aspect of our lives. Innovations often evolve from major historical breakthroughs in the STEM industry. We have highlighted four key innovations that revolutionized the landscape in science, technology, engineering and math. Watch the video to view the complete timeline of historical breakthroughs in the STEM industry.
1969 – Moon landing
Apollo 11 commander Neil Armstrong opened the hatch of the lunar module and stepped onto the surface of the moon where he uttered the famous words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” The success of Apollo 11 enabled NASA to further explore space and advance our understanding of science. Later missions explored interstellar space, saw unprecedented discoveries and developed cutting-edge technology.
1976 – Apple computers are introduced
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started Apple Computers in a garage. Jobs would leave and then later return to the company he founded. As a leader in technology and product innovation, Apple created some of the most commercially successful devices in history, including the Macintosh, iMac, iPod, iPhone and iPad, as well as technology-driven services such as Pixar and iTunes.
1989 – World Wide Web is created
British computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee developed the World Wide Web, which redefined how people connect and communicate. The evolution of the World Wide Web made it possible for pictures, sound and video to be displayed and exchanged. Websites like Amazon and Google and the concept of the Internet all exist today because of the World Wide Web.
2004 – Mark Zuckerburg launches Facebook
Mark Zuckerburg launched Facebook, initially called “thefacebook,” as a way for Harvard students to view and connect with classmates in other dorms or houses. Now everyone in the world can view and connect with anyone to share interests, photos, opinions, news and other correspondence. Facebook introduced the idea of social media and provided the model for many other platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.