There is somewhat of a magical element to technology for those who don't understand its working parts. The phenomena that thousands of unseen elements can cooperatively function in gadgets varying from cell phones to computers is often taken for granted.

To recognize individuals involved in developing technology to simplify life is what the Utah Technology Council's annual Hall of Fame celebration is all about.

At this year's annual celebration — the ninth — on Friday night, attendees "Celebrated Discovery" with the induction of two men with Utah ties who have had a significant impact on the industries of information technology and life science.

Bernard Daines, considered the "father" of Gigabit Ethernet, and James LeVoy Sorenson, a medical device pioneer, each contributed to their respective fields through the development of new technology, innovation and leadership.

"We decided that with all these unique individuals there should be some kind of acknowledgement," said Judy Young, executive director of the Utah Technology Council.

To commemorate the event, Paul Otellini, president and CEO of Intel Corp., spoke regarding the exponential growth and interconnectivity of the world through the development and improvement of technology.

"Technology has made it possible to send a man to the moon, to make possible small but powerful computers, transform countless industries — including the way we look for oil, to help trade stocks to how we book travel. The list is endless, and we have all lived through these transitions in our lifetimes," Otellini said.

World-changing trends fueled by technology, such as a mobile-connected lifestyle, technology's role in classrooms, the spread of low-cost computing and the Internet enable new economies for people around the world, Otellini said.

"People increasingly want to be connected anytime, anywhere, wherever they are," Otellini said. "Mobility is the driving trend in communications and computing."

Intel Corp. has significant ties to Utah. Currently it employs 300 workers in Riverton and approximately 1,800 workers in its joint venture with Micron Technology, IM Flash Technologies in Lehi. It represents one of the largest business investments in Utah's history, Otellini said. The Lehi site will eventually employ more than 2,000 people and will serve as the headquarters for the venture.

"There is no doubt about it, technology will allow us to connect with people in ways that were only previously possible in person," Otellini said. "I am very, very excited about what the future holds. The possibilities are endless."

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