NVIDIA's Jensen Huang Awarded 2026 IEEE Medal of Honor for Lifelong Innovations in Technology

Jensen Huang: A Visionary Leader in Technology

Jensen Huang, the CEO and founder of NVIDIA, recently received the prestigious IEEE Medal of Honor for 2026, marking a significant milestone in the realm of technological achievements. This honor is awarded by IEEE, the world's largest technical professional organization, which boasts over 500,000 members dedicated to advancing technology for humanity. Accompanied by a $2 million prize, this accolade acknowledges Huang's lifelong contributions and revolutionary leadership in accelerated computing.

Huang's innovative approach has propelled NVIDIA to the forefront of technological advancements. Under his stewardship since its inception in 1999, NVIDIA transformed the landscape of computing by introducing the first graphical processing unit (GPU). This breakthrough not only revolutionized computational tasks but also spurred significant innovations across various fields including medicine, engineering, robotics, and autonomous vehicles.

The impact of Huang's foresight in accelerated computing laid foundational technologies that support artificial intelligence and drive the fourth industrial revolution. As a pivotal figure in his field, he has garnered numerous accolades including the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering, and Financial Times and TIME Magazine's Person of the Year award. His recognition further solidifies his position as a trailblazer in technology.

Mary Ellen Randall, the President of IEEE, commented, "The IEEE Medal of Honor represents the pinnacle of professional success. Jensen Huang’s contributions have pushed the boundaries of technology, enabling innovations whose impact we can only begin to imagine. This recognition not only honors his achievements but also inspires future generations of engineers and technologists.”

Established in 1917, the IEEE Medal of Honor is presented to individuals whose contributions have profoundly influenced the world of technology and engineering, pushing the limits of what is possible. Past recipients include luminaries such as Vinton G. Cerf and Robert Kahn for their work in internet architecture, and Bradford W. Parkinson for the Global Positioning System (GPS).

NVIDIA’s platform for accelerated computing drives industries worldwide, supporting generative AI models like ChatGPT and building leading-edge factories and AI data centers. Huang’s commitment to innovation, along with his ability to anticipate industry trends decades ahead, has established a robust infrastructure that empowers technologists globally, positively influencing millions of lives daily.

In accepting the IEEE Medal of Honor, Huang expressed, “I receive this honor with deep humility. This recognition reflects the lifelong work of thousands of engineers and researchers at NVIDIA. From the invention of the GPU to the engines powering modern AI factories, we have helped spark a new industrial revolution. This award belongs to the entire community that has built the CUDA ecosystem, advancing computing beyond Moore’s Law, and continues to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence. Together, we are creating an amazing future for our planet.”

For the second consecutive year, the IEEE Medal incorporates a $2 million award, reinforcing its status as one of the most significant recognitions in technology globally. This prize highlights the integral nature of engineering and science in tackling global challenges and pushing the world forward.

As one of the most impactful figures in the tech industry, Huang's legacy follows the trail of innovation and excellence. His visionary leadership continues to inspire not only those within the technology sector but also those aspiring to shape the future through engineering and technology.

About IEEE

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