IEEE Computer Society Celebrates its 80th Anniversary in 2026
Celebrating the past, present, and future of computing research, innovation, and community
LOS ALAMITOS, Calif., 1 January 2026 -- The IEEE Computer Society (CS) proudly marks its 80th anniversary this year, celebrating eight decades of advancing the theory, practice, and application of computing technology. In recognition of this milestone, the IEEE Computer Society is unveiling a special logo treatment to commemorate its 80-year legacy, serving as a visual representation of the society’s rich legacy of innovation, community, and global impact.
“The IEEE Computer Society has been advancing the field of computing for 80 years, an achievement in and of itself,” said Grace A. Lewis, 2026 President, IEEE CS. “And while this anniversary gives us the opportunity to celebrate a long history of growth and development, it also serves as a testament to the dedication, vision, and determination of the many generations of leaders and members who have given tirelessly to advance our mission. We want to thank this community for establishing a robust legacy of success.”
The origins of the IEEE Computer Society trace back to 1946, when the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) established the Subcommittee on Large-Scale Computing Devices (LCD). Formed at a time when computers were enormous and required large amounts of electricity and cooling, the LCD Subcommittee brought together professionals to advance the science, development, construction, and application of the new machinery for computing, reasoning, and other handling of information. Its efforts helped lay the groundwork for the professional community that would evolve into today’s global IEEE Computer Society.
Today, the IEEE Computer Society has become the largest and preeminent society for knowledge-sharing and education in computer science and engineering, serving as the leading source for peer-reviewed publications, international conferences, technical standards, professional certifications, and a dynamic and growing professional community with more than 370,000 members and nearly 1,000 chapters, spanning more than 168 countries. This global community has guided the organization and the computing field through advancements such as the rise of microprocessors to the birth and proliferation of personal computing, the internet, and today’s explosion of AI, quantum computing, and robotics.
“If we can learn anything from our past, it’s that this community leads the way to the future,” said Lewis. “Right now, there is a palpable energy and passion focused on furthering computing for the betterment of humanity, and the IEEE CS community will play a pivotal role in advancing technologies to serve the world at large. If history is any indication, the next 80 years will be nothing short of revolutionary, and the Computer Society will be at the center of that evolution.”
As the IEEE Computer Society enters its next era, the society remains committed to supporting the global computing community and advancing technologies that improve lives, empower innovation, and drive economic and societal progress. In recognition of 80 years of community and success, the IEEE Computer Society will spend 2026 celebrating its legacy while engaging members around the world in events, initiatives, and stories that highlight not only where computing has been—but where it is headed.
For more information about the IEEE Computer Society’s 80th anniversary activities and upcoming commemorative events, please visit computer.org.
About the IEEE Computer Society
Engaging computer engineers, scientists, academia, and industry professionals from all areas of computing, the IEEE Computer Society (CS) sets the standard of excellence for the community and champions global advancements to benefit humanity. As IEEE CS celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026, it continues to build on its rich legacy as the world’s largest and most established professional organization of its type. Through conferences, publications, and programs that bring together computer science and engineering leaders at every stage of their careers for dialogue, debate, and collaboration, IEEE CS empowers, shapes, and guides the future of not only its 375,000+ community members, but the greater industry, enabling new opportunities to better serve our world. Visit computer.org for more information.
