Martin Cooper is an engineer, entrepreneur, and futurist, and is known as the “father of the cell phone.” In 1973, he invented the handheld cell phone, assembled a team to create it, and made the first public cell phone call, marking a pivotal moment in modern communication history. During his 30-year tenure at Motorola, Cooper and his teams spearheaded the creation of the global paging industry and the first nationwide mobile phone service. In 1992, he conceived Cooper’s Law, highlighting his advocacy for improved cellular coverage, greater affordability of cellular service and the importance of the humanity centered benefits of wireless, especially lifelong education.
Cooper was a U.S. Navy officer, serving on submarines and destroyers; he participated in the Korean conflict during the 1960s.
A graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), Cooper remains actively involved with his alma mater, serving on its Board of Trustees. He serves on the Federal Communications Commission’s Technological Advisory Council. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), a Marconi Society member, and a Prince of Asturias Laureate.
Cooper’s wife, Arlene J. Harris, a distinguished inventor, entrepreneur, and advisor to multiple university boards. Together, they continue to inspire innovation in the fields of technology and communication.
