It has been awarded since 1917, and is presented to an individual or team of up to three who have made exceptional contributions or had extraordinary careers in technology, engineering, and science in the IEEE fields of interest.

It was decided that IRE's Medal of Honor would be presented as IEEE's highest award.

Edward Field Sanford Jr., an American sculptor, designed the medal in 1917.

[2] As of 2024, 104 people have been awarded the medal, with the latest recipient being Robert E.

[4] Only one woman, Mildred Dresselhaus, has been awarded the medal, in 2015.