Consumer electronics for many does not ignite that warm and fuzzy feeling that we get from Colgate, Nike or M&M’s, that is until Apple came along. The recent death of Steve Jobs, founder and past CEO of Apple has ignited a flood of consumer tributes numbering well over one million during the past three weeks.If there was ever any doubt regarding the impact of technology on our lives, this tragic event provided us with definitive proof that technology is far more influential than any one of us could have ever imagined. The passion and creativity behind each of his products is the glue that binds us to the Apple brand and fills us with anticipation as we wait for the next device to be launched.How does a man that creates computers and media devices gain the adoration of millions? What does someone have to accomplish in order to be described as a “truly global force” by the United Nations or a ”creative, imaginative mind that defined an era”, by the president and CEO of the Walt Disney Company?The answer is simple, create something that has a positive impact on the way we live, learn, and communicate. Although the answer may be simple, the act of designing and giving life to these creations is far from it. The devices created during the era of Steve Jobs were not a result of consumer demand, but one step beyond.He wanted technology to be accessible to all, and in 1984 he opened up the world of computing to the average consumer by introducing a computer with a GUI (graphical user interface), that allowed those without a background in computer science to enjoy the same benefits of those that did. From that point on, all Apple devices became synonymous with ease of use. Their quality and the support provided by Apple remains unscathed and despite an economy in decline, consumers continue to pay a premium for the Apple brand name.It was not just his intent to make great devices, but to create something unique that would help change the world; and that he did.I thought it was appropriate to kick off the Technology Education Section by paying tribute to a man that pioneered so many of the devices that are now commonplace in homes across the globe.See you all next week, as we explore the products that he created for us and the technology that drives them.