Impossible dreams made possible.
Earl Bakken was a pioneer in medical technology whose inventions continue to impact the lives of millions of people around the world. Inspired by the 1931 film Frankenstein, Bakken turned a childhood fascination with electricity into a legacy of innovation and philanthropy.
TIMELINE
See an interactive timeline of Earl Bakken’s life including innovations, awards, and accomplishments
LIVING ON, DREAMING ON
Throughout his life, Earl Bakken was instrumental in establishing and guiding organizations. These organizations continue to impact the health and wellness of the individuals and communities they serve.
READY, FIRE, AIM
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Earl Bakken said that leadership is an active process and that a person is leading only when they are doing. The act of doing provides leaders with experience, which Earl considered to be the ultimate teacher. Effective leaders are explorers who learn their lessons by doing and who share their experiences by acting as coaches, communicating, and trusting their players.
Earl Bakken summarized his philosophy of leadership in three words: ready, fire, aim!
Original hand drawn schematic of the world’s first transistorized cardiac pacemaker, circa 1958, by Earl Bakken.