William A. “Bill” Hyman, ScD, an esteemed clinical engineering professional and frequent 24×7 contributor, passed away this summer. In a press release, American College of Clinical Engineering (ACCE) officials called Hyman a “dedicated professional— always generous and willing to share his extensive knowledge.” Specifically, the ACCE said: “During long sessions of CCE examinations, Bill was a font of knowledge and humor—always a pleasure to work with.”
William Hyman, ScD
Hyman, a native New Yorker, received his BSME degree at the nearby The Cooper Union and subsequently received a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and a ScD in engineering mechanics from Columbia University.
A strong proponent of education, Hyman dedicated his career to passing along his knowledge to others, most notably at Texas A&M University. There, Hyman helped turn the fledgling bioengineering program into a full Department of Biomedical Engineering, while bringing applied sciences into the research program. In 2011, Professor Emeritus Hyman returned to his Cooper Union roots as adjunct -professor of biomedical engineering.
Hyman’s primary professional interests included medical device design safety, clinical engineering, and biomechanics, although the ACCE also called him a “thought leader in many other areas.” In addition to penning numerous articles for 24×7 (Read some of his articles here and here.) and other publications—along with serving as the longtime editor of the Journal of Clinical Engineering—Hyman authored 13 books. He also taught various ACCE Clinical Engineering Workshops, speaking to both international and national audiences.
“Bill Hyman was not one to seek the spotlight, but he believed in giving back to the profession and the community,” the ACCE said in the press release, highlighting his service with the U.S. Board of Examiners for Clinical Engineering Certification, as well as his past role as president of the ACCE’s Healthcare Technology Foundation. His numerous achievements included the ACCE Lifetime Achievement Award, the ASTM Meritorious Service Award, and “Wall of Fame” recognition by United Cerebral Palsy of Houston.
“Bill was a keen observer of the profession, seeing practice gaps in need of attention that others missed,” the ACCE said in a statement. “He could play the maverick but was always the professional. Always a thoughtful straight-shooter, Bill has been likened to ‘the spine that kept us straight.’ He was a giant among us and will be missed.”
Please share your memories of Bill and condolences to the Hyman family in the comments section.
