October 6, 2025
Italian engineer Pasquale Pistorio has passed away at the age of 89, leaving a profound mark on the European semiconductor industry. Born in Agira (Enna)Enna, Sicily, in 1936 and graduating in Electronic Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Turin in 1963, Pistorio built a career that redefined Italy’s role in the global microelectronics landscape.
From his early years in Sicily to his international career, Pistorio joined Motorola, where he worked for 17 years and quickly rose through the ranks. He became Vice President of the Semiconductor Division and Head of International Marketing, introducing innovative approaches such as segmenting markets not only by geography but also by applications. This change significantly improved customer relationships and Motorola’s competitive positioning worldwide.
In 1980, Pistorio returned to Italy to lead SGS (Società Generale Semiconduttori), a state-owned company in severe financial trouble. He tackled the losses by restructuring the organization, improving processes, and redefining its strategy.
In 1987, he spearheaded the merger with the French Thomson Microelectronics, creating SGS-Thomson Microelectronics, later renamed STMicroelectronics. As CEO and president until 2005, he transformed ST into one of the world’s leading chipmakers, expanding operations across Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Pistorio placed technological innovation at the core of ST’s growth. Under his leadership, the company opened new fabs, introduced cutting-edge technologies, and strengthened research centers. He promoted the creation of technology clusters such as the “Etna Valley” in Catania, which helped develop local expertise and integrate Sicily into the global semiconductor industry.
He was among the first to combine research, manufacturing, and global marketing. He encouraged the company to invest not only in territorial expansion but also in processes, product innovation, and international strategies.
Pistorio’s impact is still visible today in the facilities he helped build and in the decisions that shaped the trajectory of both the Italian and European semiconductor industries. STMicroelectronics has grown into one of the top global players, thanks in large part to his strategic choices in innovation, manufacturing capacity, and long-term vision.
Pasquale Pistorio was more than a successful executive: he was one of the main architects of Italy’s technological transformation. His focus on innovation, ability to turn around struggling companies, and vision for building an ecosystem of excellence remain his greatest legacy.
