Two McMaster Engineering graduates become Royal Society of Canada Fellows – Faculty of Engineering

Two McMaster Engineering graduates become Royal Society of Canada Fellows

A clock outside the John Hodgins Engineering Building

Barry Hill and Waguih Ishak have been honoured for their scholarly achievements by being named to the Royal Society of Canada. 

Hill and Ishak join over 2,000 distinguished Canadians from various fields of learning who have made significant contributions to the arts, humanities, sciences and Canadian public life. 

“Barry and Waguih are pillars in our alumni community, exemplifying the excellence and dedication that we strive for at McMaster,” says Dean Heather Sheardown, Faculty of Engineering, McMaster University. “We celebrate them on this significant recognition.”


Barry Hill portrait

Barry Hill ‘66, ‘68, ‘22 (Mechanical Engineering) | Specially Elected Fellow 

Engineer, agriculturalist, entrepreneur, historical interpreter, teacher and organist, Barry Hill continues to contribute to his community as a dedicated volunteer and advisor. In 1993, Hill changed careers to rebuild the family farm and became engaged with local planning and economic development initiatives. He also led several agricultural organizations and continues to contribute his expertise at two universities. He is Warden at H.M Chapel Royal of the Mohawk.  


Waguih Ishak portrait

Waguih Ishak ‘75, ‘78, ‘15 (Electrical Engineering) | Academy of Science 

Waguih Ishak created and led photonics and electronics research teams to develop key photonic components and systems including more than 20 Lightwave instruments, the world’s first commercialized VCSEL lasers, the development and commercialization of the optical mouse, the invention and commercialization of the laser mouse, the development of the >100Gb/s parallel optical computer interconnects, and the 40Gb/s active optical cables.  


Hill and Ishak will be inducted on November 8 at a ceremony as part of the Celebration of Excellence and Engagement along with seven other McMaster researchers.