The Tech began as a
dream. In 1978, members of the Junior League of Palo Alto, later joined by the
San Jose League, envisioned an exciting learning center devoted to science and
technology in the heart of Silicon Valley. The vision for The Tech was realized
in 1990 when a 20,000-square-foot temporary test facility was opened in the old
convention center on San Carlos Street. Since then, The Tech has fine-tuned its
mission of engaging people of all ages in the technologies that affect their
daily lives and has built a reputation as a viable and necessary educational
resource in the area of science and technology learning. It has also become a
landmark for visitors seeking a glimpse of the most inventive place on Earth
and a showcase of the latest high-tech gizmos and gadgets that put Silicon
Valley on the map. Since the prototype
Tech opened, approximately 2,800,000 visitors from all over the world have
enjoyed a one-of-a-kind, up close view of Silicon Valley with hands-on,
interactive exhibits, workshops, labs, a speakers series, an online exhibit
hall and other activities, such as the annual Tech Challenge. This high-tech
design contest has attracted nearly 8,000 youth during the eleven years of the
competition.