Howard Head
In 1947, aircraft engineer Howard created the first laminate ski. In 1950, he founded his own firm “Head,” a company that continues to be one of the largest manufacturers of skis and tennis rackets. After moving to Vail, Colorado, he helped establish the Howard Head Sports Medicine Center in 1987. Vail’s “Head First” run is named in his honor. In addition, he is also credited with inventing the oversize tennis rackets that are used today.