From a blue-collar cargo handler to a technology pioneer with 50 global patents, Bao Qifan seems to have acquired the magic ability to be able to crack the hardest nut every time. After winning numerous awards at home and abroad, Bao wants to share with young people the secret of his success-passion and hard work.

Bao's first innovation can be traced back to 1978, when China began its policy of reform and opening-up. Then 27-year-old Bao got an opportunity to study part time at Shanghai Polytechnic University, majoring in hoisting and conveying machinery.

Based on the knowledge learned from the machinery major, as well as the experience of six years as a cargo handler and four years as a repairman, in 1979, Bao successfully modified the variable cross section of a crane's winding drum, effectively lengthening the use of wire ropes from three per month to one every three months.

The innovation helped greatly lower the cost for wire ropes at cargo ports, and won recognition from Japanese experts, who suggested that Bao apply for a patent for his design. But, even though he would go on to own more than 50, at the time, Bao had no idea about patents.