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Jensen Huang Receives 2026 IEEE Medal of Honor

In an illustrious ceremony held in Piscataway, New Jersey, on January 6, 2026, Jensen Huang, the founder and CEO of NVIDIA, was awarded the prestigious 2026 IEEE Medal of Honor. The IEEE honors Huang for his visionary leadership and pioneering work in accelerated computing, recognizing his significant contributions to advancing technology for humanity’s benefit.

The IEEE, which stands as the world’s largest technical professional association, announced this honor, accompanied by a generous prize of $2 million, as a testament to Huang's transformative impact on the industry. Under his stewardship, NVIDIA has not only revolutionized graphics processing units (GPUs) since their inception in 1999 but has also positioned itself at the forefront of innovations that power fields from healthcare and engineering to autonomous vehicles and robotics.

Huang's foresight in accelerated computing laid the groundwork for today’s artificial intelligence technologies. NVIDIA’s cutting-edge platforms fuel generative AI models, including the likes of ChatGPT, and enable the construction of pivotal AI data centers and factories across the globe. This recognition further cements Huang's status as a key figure in the new industrial revolution, as he leads with vision that stretches over decades into the future.

Mary Ellen Randall, the IEEE President, expressed that, “The IEEE Medal of Honor represents the pinnacle of professional achievement. Jensen Huang's contributions have pushed the boundaries of technology, allowing for innovations that have yet to be imagined. The IEEE proudly acknowledges works that not only define excellence in our field but will inspire future generations of engineers and technologists.”

Established in 1917, the IEEE Medal of Honor is awarded to individuals whose work has significantly impacted technology and engineering. Recipients are celebrated for their bold innovations that expand the limits of possibility. This year, Huang joins an esteemed lineage of past honorees who have shaped modern life, including Vinton G. Cerf and Robert Kahn (for internet architecture), Bradford W. Parkinson (GPS), and Morris Chang (semiconductors).

NVIDIA’s platform has become crucial across a myriad of sectors, enabling technological advancements that improve and transform daily lives worldwide. Huang's commitment to innovation and his ability to anticipate industry trends have established a robust infrastructure, empowering technologists globally while affecting millions of lives.

In response to receiving the accolade, Huang shared, “To receive the IEEE Medal of Honor is a great lesson in humility. This recognition is for the collective efforts of thousands of engineers and researchers at NVIDIA. From the invention of the GPU to the engines of modern AI factories, we are the trailblazers of a new industrial revolution. This award belongs to the entire community that created the CUDA ecosystem, pushed past Moore’s Law in computing, and continues to stretch the boundaries of artificial intelligence. Together, we are building a wonderful future for our planet.”

Huang’s achievement marks the second consecutive year that the IEEE Medal of Honor is accompanied by a substantial endowment of $2 million, underlining the importance of this award as one of the most significant distinctions in technology globally. It highlights the essential role of engineering and science in addressing global challenges and driving the world forward.

In conclusion, Huang’s recognition is not just a personal honor; it reflects a collective triumph for NVIDIA and the broader tech community. It serves as an inspiration to push the envelope further and catalyze future innovations that can change the world.

The IEEE continues to stand as a beacon of technological advancement, promoting high-quality publications, conferences, and educational activities. For more information about the IEEE, please visit www.ieee.org.