Howard Shearer (B.Eng. ’77, Hon. D.Eng. ’24), an innovator and community builder, has been honoured with prestigious appointments in Jamaica.
Recognized for his significant contributions to engineering and technology, Shearer has been awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander by the Governor General of Jamaica, Sir Patrick Allen, and Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
Shearer, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hitachi Canada Ltd., received this award for his outstanding contributions to the country.
In an interview with the Caribbean Times, Shearer expressed his gratitude, saying: “I view this honour as another opportunity to leverage my global experience for the benefit of Jamaica, to contribute in meaningful ways to our nation’s growth, and to ensure that the journey which began in the land of my birth continues to make a lasting impact…I will continue to do my part to elevate Jamaica on the world stage.”
Shearer earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from McMaster in 1977 and was one of the 2024 honorary doctorate recipients. He has been a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board in the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster since 2014 and served on McMaster’s Board of Governors and the McMaster Alumni Association Board for seven years. He credits his time at McMaster for igniting his passion for nuclear energy, a field in which he is now a global leader.
“This is a well-deserved recognition for an industry titan and a compassionate community leader,” says Heather Sheardown, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University. “Howard’s unwavering support for future generations of engineers through his volunteer roles at McMaster has been invaluable. His leadership has left an indelible mark on our community and beyond.”
Shearer is also a dedicated community builder who volunteers his time to promote diversity and inclusion and aims to break through racial barriers. He serves on the boards of the York Region Police Integrated Strategic Community Advisory Committee and B’Nai Brith Canada’s League for Human Rights Special Advisory Council. He is the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Energy Council of Canada and a pivotal member of the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Board, engaging with both the Audit and Strategy Committees.
Watch an interview with Howard Shearer: