I’m presently pursuing a career as a software engineer (See Learning). I am learning C++. Notable people in the field are:

Bjarne Stroustrup (The creator of C++). As far as I’m concerned if there is a god it is Bjarne. He is responsible (though not solely) for the software that modern society underpins/relies upon. Microsoft and Apple would not exist without Bjarne’s work. And subsequently the iphone and ALL smartphones…you get the picture.

Herb Sutter is on the C++ ISO steering comittee. He is responsible for (partly) deciding what goes into the C++ Standard.

C++ Primer - Not really a primer at 1000 Pages but a great intro book.