San Jose has produced and nurtured leaders across technology, sports, arts, and public service.
* **Steve Wozniak**: Co-founder of Apple Inc. and legendary computer engineer; born and raised in San Jose. * **Norman Mineta**: Former Mayor of San Jose and U.S. Secretary of Transportation; namesake of the local international airport. * **Pat Tillman**: Professional football player who famously left the NFL to enlist in the U.S. Army after 9/11; grew up in the San Jose area. * **Kristi Yamaguchi**: Olympic gold medalist figure skater; a Bay Area native closely tied to San Jose's athletic community and local philanthropy. * **Khaled Hosseini**: Bestselling author of *The Kite Runner*; spent many years living in San Jose and practicing medicine in the area. * **Joey Chestnut**: World-famous competitive eater; a San Jose State University alumnus and long-time local resident.