NVIDIA Leaders Honored with Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering

NVIDIA’s founder and CEO Jensen Huang, along with Chief Scientist Bill Dally, have been awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering. Their recognition comes as a result of their groundbreaking contributions to the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, according to NVIDIA’s official blog.

Pioneers in Accelerated Computing

Huang and Dally were among seven laureates recognized for their pioneering efforts in developing GPU architectures that are fundamental to current AI systems and machine learning algorithms. The award, presented by King Charles III at St James’s Palace, highlights their role in the evolution of accelerated computing, a key driver of the ongoing transformation in the technology sector.

Huang expressed immense pride in being acknowledged alongside other innovators who have revolutionized the world, stating, “We are living through the most profound transformation in computing since the invention of the microprocessor.” He emphasized the essential nature of AI as future infrastructure, akin to electricity and the internet in past eras.

Contributions to AI Advancement

Dally credited the progress in AI to decades of advancements in parallel computing and stream processing, underscoring the continual refinement of AI hardware and software to empower greater human achievements. The duo’s work has enabled the training of large models and the simulation of complex systems, significantly advancing scientific research.

Their contributions have laid the groundwork for the widespread adoption of AI technologies, continuing a tradition of innovation that the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering aims to celebrate.

Engagement with the UK Government

On the same day as the award ceremony, Huang and Dally participated in a roundtable discussion at 10 Downing Street. This event, attended by UK government officials, including Secretary of State for Science, Technology and Innovation Liz Kendall, focused on inspiring the next generation of engineers and expanding AI infrastructure and research capacity in collaboration with the UK.

Stephen Hawking Fellowship

In addition to the Queen Elizabeth Prize, Huang was also honored with the Professor Stephen Hawking Fellowship at the Cambridge Union. This fellowship, presented by Lucy Hawking, recognizes individuals who advance STEM fields and enhance public understanding. Huang expressed admiration for Stephen Hawking’s legacy, highlighting the importance of intellectual curiosity in driving human progress.

The acknowledgment of Huang and Dally’s work through these prestigious awards underscores their significant influence on modern engineering and the ongoing impact of their innovations in AI and computing.

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