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2024

IEEE Annual Report

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Changing the World for the Better

Since 1884, IEEE has actively shaped the future of technology—and the world—by tirelessly advancing innovation and technological excellence. In 2024, IEEE recognized the groundbreaking accomplishments of its leaders and members who sparked radical transformation and made our planet a better place.
Medal of Honor | Medal of Honor Recipient | VIC Summit | President’s Award | Recognizing Historic Technology Milestones
IEEE Medal of Honor Logo RGB Half KO

Prestigious IEEE Medal of Honor Prize Increased to US$2 Million in 2025

To recognize the world-changing impact that technology, engineering and science innovators have on society globally, IEEE increased the IEEE Medal of Honor monetary prize to US$2 million starting in 2025. This momentous move elevates the recognition of extraordinary individuals and their work to benefit humanity to its rightful place as one of the world’s most prestigious technology-focused prizes and awards.

“By significantly increasing the IEEE Medal of Honor monetary prize to $2 million, we are elevating our recognition of extraordinary individuals and the work they have done to benefit humanity to its rightful place as one of the world’s most prestigious technology-focused prizes and awards.”

- IEEE President and CEO Tom Coughlin
2024 IEEE Medal of Honor recipient Robert Kahn

IEEE Life Fellow Robert Kahn Awarded 2024 IEEE Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is IEEE’s pinnacle of recognition. In 2024, it was awarded to Robert Kahn, widely known as one of the “fathers of the internet.” Kahn was recognized “for pioneering technical and leadership contributions in packet communication technologies and foundations of the internet.” Kahn’s leadership and dedicated efforts in the application of packet networks led to the development of the internet. The award was presented at the IEEE Honors Ceremony in Boston, MA.
From left: 2024 IEEE President-elect Kathleen Kramer, 2024 IEEE Medal of Honor recipient Robert Kahn, IEEE Life Fellow John McDonald and IEEE President Tom Coughlin; Robert Kahn speaking at the 2024 IEEE Honors Ceremony; 2024 IEEE Honors Ceremony recipients; Robert Kahn

Watch Robert Kahn's Acceptance Speech at the
IEEE Honors Ceremony

AI and Global Engagement Spotlighted at VICS

The 2024 IEEE Vision, Innovation and Challenges Summit in Boston, MA, spotlighted artificial intelligence and global engagement initiatives as key themes. During panel discussions, experts emphasized AI’s role as a tool to enhance rather than replace human capabilities. The summit also highlighted how global engagement and participation drives excellence and helps talent reach their full potential, reflecting IEEE’s commitment to ensuring all members feel welcome and appreciated.
AI and Global Engagement Spotlighted at VICS 2
IEEE VIC Summit attendee
AI and Global Engagement Spotlighted at VICS 1
IEEE VIC Summit panel

Gladys West Receives IEEE President’s Award

The 2024 IEEE President’s Award was presented to Gladys West for “mathematical modeling and development of satellite geodesy models that played a pivotal role in the development of the Global Positioning System.” When she began her career in 1956 at the Naval Proving Ground, she was only one of four African Americans employed at the facility. West’s contributions have had a lasting impact on mathematics, geodesy and computer science. Her pioneering efforts in a predominantly male and racially segregated environment set a precedent for future generations.
Gladys West West Writing
Gladys West at her desk meticulously crunching numbers manually in the era before computers took over such tasks.
Gladys West
Gladys West in the 1980s during her days as a mathematician and computer programmer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, VA.

Recognizing Historic Technology Milestones

Each year, the IEEE Milestones program honors exceptional technical achievements that occurred at least 25 years ago.

Visit our Historic Technology Timeline
airport traffic control historic milestone
Woman holding the prototype of the Discrete Address Beacon System Transponder, February 1, 1974.