Economist Podcasts Company profile: Corning
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Jun 23, 2025 
Wendell Weeks, the seasoned CEO of Corning, and Jamin Amin, the innovative Chief Technology Officer, dive into the transformative world of glass technology. They share insights on the evolution of communications through fiber optics and the groundbreaking development of Gorilla Glass for the iPhone, which reshaped the smartphone industry. Weeks reveals how blunt advice from Steve Jobs sparked innovation at Corning. The discussion highlights the balance between risk and opportunity, and the ongoing commitment to enhancing product durability in an ever-changing tech landscape.
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Weeks' Formative Childhood Impact
- Wendell Weeks shared how his chaotic childhood and father's business failure motivated him to deeply understand finance and business success.
- This personal history shaped his commitment and strong connection to Corning's culture and mission.
Jobs Calls Out Weeks' Fear
- Steve Jobs directly challenged Wendell Weeks, accusing him of being afraid to deliver on iPhone glass demands.
- Jobs' bluntness forced Weeks and Corning to push their limits and embrace risk for innovation.
Risk as Mathematical Calculation
- View risk mathematically, focusing on positive surprises rather than downsides.
- Double down on what works to fuel innovation and pay for failures.