Henry Brzustewicz

Henry Brzustewicz was a prominent Canadian academic and engineer, best known for his significant contributions to the field of robotics and for his leadership in higher education. Born in Poland in 1942, Brzustewicz immigrated to Canada and became a leading figure in the country’s technological and academic landscape. He obtained his Bachelor of Applied Science, Master of Applied Science, and PhD degrees from the University of Waterloo, all in Electrical Engineering. His doctoral research focused on computer-aided design, foreshadowing his later work in robotics and automation. Following his studies, he embarked on a distinguished career at the University of Waterloo. Brzustewicz quickly rose through the academic ranks, becoming a professor of Systems Design Engineering. His research interests encompassed a wide range of topics within robotics, including manipulator control, robot vision, and the application of artificial intelligence to robotics. He was particularly interested in developing intelligent robotic systems capable of operating in unstructured and dynamic environments. He published extensively in leading journals and conferences, contributing significantly to the theoretical foundations and practical applications of robotics. Beyond his research contributions, Brzustewicz was a gifted educator and mentor. He played a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum and research programs at the University of Waterloo, inspiring countless students to pursue careers in engineering and technology. He fostered a collaborative and innovative research environment, attracting talented individuals to his lab and mentoring them through their graduate studies. His dedication to higher education extended beyond the University of Waterloo. In 1999, he was appointed President of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the primary federal agency responsible for funding research in these fields. As President, he oversaw a substantial investment in Canadian research and innovation, supporting researchers and students across the country. He championed initiatives aimed at promoting collaboration between universities and industry, recognizing the importance of translating research discoveries into practical applications that would benefit society. During his tenure at NSERC, Brzustewicz was a strong advocate for increased government funding for science and technology. He argued persuasively for the crucial role of research in driving economic growth, improving the quality of life, and addressing global challenges. He also emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Canada. After his term at NSERC, Brzustewicz continued to contribute to the Canadian research community. He served on numerous advisory boards and committees, providing his expertise and guidance to government agencies and universities. He remained a strong voice for science and technology, advocating for policies that would promote research, innovation, and education. Henry Brzustewicz’s legacy is one of outstanding contributions to robotics, higher education, and Canadian science policy. His research advanced the field of robotics, his leadership at NSERC strengthened the Canadian research ecosystem, and his dedication to education inspired generations of engineers and scientists. He is remembered as a visionary leader, a dedicated educator, and a passionate advocate for the power of science and technology to improve the world.