Technology History Trailblazer & Video Game Design Pioneer; Co-Creator of APF's MP1000 & The Imagination Machine; Author of Imagine That!
Ed Smith Biography
Ed Smith is recognized as a significant figure in the history of technology, particularly for his contributions as one of the few African American engineers involved in video game design during the 1970s. Smith was the first African American to work on the design of a personal computer, specifically the only hybrid video game and personal computer ever released. He co-created APF Electronics' game console, the "MP1000," and its companion device, "The Imagination Machine," both of which hold a place in the evolution of consumer electronics and video game history. During a period when Black Americans faced ongoing challenges for social justice, APF Electronics hired Smith to design core elements of its electronics business in Manhattan.
Smith's entry into engineering followed an unconventional path. At 14, his father encouraged him to pursue a chauffeur's license, but Smith focused on academics and secured a position at Marbelite, a major manufacturer of traffic signals in Brooklyn. With a strong interest in electronics, Smith studied computer science and worked on traffic control signals at Marbelite, where he learned early microprocessor-based circuit design at Fairchild. These skills led to his recruitment by APF Electronics in New York, where he contributed to hardware design, prototype development, and joystick and I/O port design for the "MP1000" video game console, which competed with Atari and Coleco in the first generation of cartridge-based games.
Following the "MP1000," Smith and the APF design team developed "The Imagination Machine," the first combined home video game console and personal computer. As part of a small engineering team, Smith played a key role in designing both the "MP1000" and its computer expansion module. His work was featured in Black Enterprise magazine, highlighting the contributions of African Americans to the video game industry. Throughout his tenure at APF, Smith remained aware of the lack of technology education and exposure for youth in underserved communities, and he distributed free game consoles to children in public housing to encourage interest in technology.
After leaving APF, Smith transitioned out of the video game industry. He managed an Apple dealership in upstate New York, worked at a computer dealer in Albany, helped expand The Computer Factory to Philadelphia, and later joined PC networking company Novell during its early years. Smith built a career as a business development executive with more than 30 years of experience in strategic partner engagement and management across the hardware, software, and services sectors.
Smith has become a public voice on technology, diversity, and perseverance. His pioneering work in the video game and personal computer industries has been recognized by publications including Fast Company, Vintage Computing, and PC Magazine, which listed him among Black tech pioneers. Smith owns Imagine That, a company focused on technology consulting and public speaking, with a website featuring photos, podcasts, a blog, and video interviews with Smith and other technology historians. His autobiography, "Imagine That!," is available on Amazon. Smith is an active speaker at corporations, organizations, high schools, and universities, sharing his experiences as an African American engineer and advocate for diversity in technology.
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Ed Smith Speaking Topics
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- Vintage video gaming and computers
- Early adopter of technology
- African American in technology
- Overcoming adversity in the tech space
Ed Smith Videos
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Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Ed Smith for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Ed Smith, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Ed Smith or any other speaker of your choice. -
What are the speaker fees for Ed Smith
Speaking fees for Ed Smith, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Ed Smith are $10,000 - $20,000 for live events and under $10,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Ed Smith, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does Ed Smith speak about?
Ed Smith is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Computer Science, DEI, Diversity & Inclusion, Executive Leadership, Gaming, Innovation, Inventors, Overcoming Adversity, Storytelling, Technology -
Where does Ed Smith travel from?
Ed Smith generally travels from Kissimmee, FL, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
Who is Ed Smith’s agent?
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Ed Smith is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as . The estimated speaking fee range to book Ed Smith for your event is $10,000 - $20,000. Ed Smith generally travels from Kissimmee, FL, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Brenda Louise Romero, Rocky Stoutenburgh, Ryan Horrigan, Dominick Evans and Lisette Titre-Montgomery. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Ed Smith for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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