The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, regarding the passing of industry veteran and leader Ray Gates.

Ray, former president of Panasonic Company, was the company’s first U.S. employee. He was a true servant leader who led with compassion and kindness. As chairman of CTA’s (formerly EIA’s Consumer Electronics Group) Board in 1982, he set the tone for four decades of running CES. He strongly believed that anyone with an idea should have low-cost access to the world’s most influential tech event. This passion inspired Eureka Park and has allowed tens of thousands of investors, retailers, media, and partners to connect with startups at CES. He also taught me that you don’t have to understand the intricate engineering details of every product to be a good leader within the tech industry. We are forever grateful for Ray leaving his mark on CTA, CES, and the entire tech industry. We send our deepest condolences to Ray’s immediate family members and his extended Panasonic family.