Dov Frohman, Israeli electrical engineer and business executive

Dov Frohman (born March 28, 1939), known in Hebrew as דב פרוהמן and also by the full name Dov Frohman-Bentchkowsky, stands as a prominent Israeli figure in the world of technology and business. An accomplished electrical engineer and shrewd business executive, Frohman's career is marked by groundbreaking innovation and significant contributions to the global semiconductor industry, particularly during his impactful tenure at Intel Corporation.

The Genius Behind EPROM: A Memory Revolution

Among his most notable achievements, Dov Frohman is celebrated as the brilliant inventor of the erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM). This revolutionary technology, developed in the early 1970s, fundamentally changed how digital information could be stored and updated. Before EPROM, memory chips were either permanently programmed (ROM) or volatile (RAM), losing data when power was removed. EPROM offered a crucial middle ground: it could retain data without power, but, uniquely, it could also be erased using ultraviolet light and then reprogrammed. This flexibility was a game-changer for product development, allowing engineers to test and refine software on hardware prototypes without having to discard and replace physical chips every time a change was needed. EPROM became indispensable in microcontrollers, embedded systems, and early personal computers, effectively democratizing software development and accelerating the digital revolution. Frohman's invention paved the way for more advanced flash memory technologies that are ubiquitous in today's devices, from smartphones to SSDs.

Founding and Leading Intel Israel: A Visionary Enterprise

Frohman's influence extends far beyond his inventive prowess. He also played a pivotal role in establishing Intel's presence in Israel, serving as the founder and first general manager of Intel Israel. This venture, initiated in 1974, was not merely an expansion; it was a strategic move that transformed Israel into a global hub for semiconductor research and development. Under Frohman’s leadership, Intel Israel grew from a small design center into a powerhouse, responsible for developing crucial Intel processors and technologies. His vision helped foster a vibrant tech ecosystem in Israel, attracting talent and investment and solidifying the nation's reputation as a "Start-up Nation." The success of Intel Israel under Frohman's guidance is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills and his ability to cultivate innovation within a corporate framework, demonstrating how strategic international investment can yield profound technological and economic benefits.

Beyond Engineering: An Author and Thought Leader

In addition to his storied career in engineering and corporate leadership, Dov Frohman has also shared his insights and experiences through literature. He is the esteemed author, alongside Robert Howard, of the book Leadership the Hard Way: Why Leadership Can’t Be Taught—And How You Can Learn It Anyway (Jossey-Bass, 2008). This work draws upon his decades of experience navigating the complex challenges of innovation and management in the high-tech industry. The book offers a unique perspective on leadership, emphasizing practical wisdom gained through direct experience rather than abstract theories. It reflects Frohman’s philosophy that true leadership often emerges from confronting difficult situations and making tough decisions, resonating deeply with business professionals and aspiring leaders seeking authentic guidance in an ever-evolving world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dov Frohman

Who is Dov Frohman?
Dov Frohman (Hebrew: דב פרוהמן; born March 28, 1939) is a distinguished Israeli electrical engineer and business executive. He is best known as the inventor of EPROM and the founder and first general manager of Intel Israel.
What did Dov Frohman invent?
He invented the erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), a groundbreaking semiconductor device that allows for data to be stored persistently, erased with ultraviolet light, and then reprogrammed, revolutionizing memory technology.
What is his connection to Intel Corporation?
Dov Frohman served as a former vice president of Intel Corporation. More significantly, he founded and led Intel Israel, transforming it into a vital global R&D center for the company.
What book did Dov Frohman write?
He co-authored Leadership the Hard Way: Why Leadership Can’t Be Taught—And How You Can Learn It Anyway (Jossey-Bass, 2008) with Robert Howard, sharing his insights on effective leadership.
When was Dov Frohman born?
Dov Frohman was born on March 28, 1939.