IEEE Presidents Note: Preserve the impact of technological history

During most of its existence of more than 140 years, IEEE has been a leader in the preservation of the high range of history behind the electric, electronic and computer fields and the related areas of science and technology that support modern society. This story shows a continuous and dynamic cycle in which scientific understanding feeds innovation, and technological advances allow new ways for scientific exploration. This fascinating trip continues to have vast implications for our future. Organizations such as IEEE have created an environment conducive to progress and evolution by facilitating knowledge exchange, developing standards and advocating a solid public policy so that they finally advance technology for the benefit of humanity.

Explore the contributions of key figures, such as Michael Faraday and its discoveries in electromagnetism, and Gracia hopperThe queen of the software, as well as the challenges they overcome, offer a valuable context for current and future innovators.

A greater understanding and appreciation of the historical contributions of the IEEE fields and participating in an open dialogue with the public can help build a more sustainable, efficient and technologically advanced future. Public trust and commitment are essential for continuous progress and acceptance of technological advances. When reviewing past successes and failures, political leaders can better anticipate the consequences of the new progress of electrical engineering and develop policies that promote innovation while guaranteeing public safety and environmental sustainability. Ethical considerations have always been inherent in the development of technology, and the examination of historical challenges can offer valuable information to navigate similar dilemmas in emerging fields, such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

History serves as a testimony of the power of ingenuity and human collaboration. When studying the evolution of electrical engineering, we can identify patterns, reflect on what worked well and why, analyze what went wrong and build on existing knowledge to create new technologies.

Supporting the cause

Since its inception, IEEE has had a position History CommitteeConcerned about maintaining the legacy and heritage of the organization and its members and its professions and related technologies. He IEEE History Center It retains, investigates and promotes the legacy of electrical engineering and computing through its numerous programs.

Of assistance IEEE MILESTONE The ceremonies of dedication, which recognize outstanding technical developments worldwide, have always made me happy. Visiting these historically significant places, where local volunteers have worked with technical experts, historians and the public to celebrate pioneer achievements and people behind them, is really inspiring and a testimony of how technological innovation benefits humanity. They are an excellent way to experience the history of technology along with the Global IEEE community.

This year I had the opportunity to attend the reopening of IEEE Global Museumwhich brings travel exhibitions focused on the history of electrotechnology to the members of IEEE and the public. The museum promotes awareness of how technological progress develops during generations and how engineers and researchers can take advantage of past achievements to improve people’s lives.

He IEEE Oral History Program Collect spoken memories and personal comments of historical importance through recorded interviews. There are almost 900 interviews available in ethw.org. As president of IEEE, I look forward to my own participation in him.

IEEE REACH It provides pre -university teachers for free resources that place science, technology and engineering in their social and human contexts. The resources provide students with an understanding of technologies, including the way they have shaped society and, in turn, how society has shaped them.

Preserving the history of our profession is vital to foster innovation, inspire future generations, promote collaboration and guarantee the safe, sustainable and ethical development of technology that will continue to shape our world.

I encourage you to investigate all the programs and resources available in History.ieee.org. The work of the IEEE History Center is possible by donations to the IEEE Foundation. Support the IEEE History Center here.

Share your thoughts with me: president@ieee.org