Bill Gates is the co-founder of Microsoft and one of the richest people in the world. He discovered an interest in computers at a young age and started programming at 13. In 1975, he founded Microsoft with his childhood friend Paul Allen. Gates was known for his confrontational management style which emphasized innovation, urgency, and an informal work environment. After stepping down as CEO, he has focused his efforts on his philanthropic work through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which aims to address global health and development issues.