While Oracle is known for a cowboy atmosphere that accommodates sharp personalities, H-P is considered the tech industry's buttoned-up elder statesman, where employees take yearly classes in correct business conduct.

WSJ: At Oracle, Hurd in Rare Situation

Gates also argues that the U.S. should raise the cap on so-called H-1B visas for skilled foreign nationals so that the U.S. can retain the high-tech workers it trains at its universities.

FORBES: Magazine Article

President Obama has been in favor of granting more H-1B visas, and loosening policies that would allow foreign graduates to stay on and work in the U.S. Many multinational tech companies, including Microsoft, have called for more H-1B visas to be issued to fill gaps in the skilled labor pool.

FORBES: In India, More Workers Off To U.S.