News | Friday, 21st July 2017

Developer of Raspberry Pi computer awarded honorary doctorate

Pete Lomas 'humbled to receive an award for doing something I love'

Pete Lomas received an honorary Doctor of Science
Pete Lomas received an honorary Doctor of Science

The computer engineer and inventor whose Raspberry Pi computer inspired schoolchildren to build and program has been made an honorary Doctor of Science.

Businessman and innovator Pete Lomas was recognised by Manchester Metropolitan University for "his significant contribution to computer science through the development of the Raspberry Pi and dedication to engaging young people in computing".

He received the degree at the Faculty of Science and Engineering graduation ceremony at Bridgewater Hall on Thursday, July 20.

Special award

Pete told the audience: "I'm very humbled to receive the award from the university for doing something that I love.

"It's made particularly special that it's from this university, in my home city."

He spoke about the maxim "Life is a journey, not a destination" and added: "I passionately believe that learning happens all along that journey."

Pete is a co-founder and trustee of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a UK registered charity which promotes awareness of computer science and electronics through digital making.

The foundation has a primary focus on engaging children and achieves this via its many outreach programmes, community events and CodeClub a worldwide school club. 

Many events are based around the credit card-sized Raspberry Pi computer which with over 14m sold is now the best-selling UK designed computing platform.

Rise to fame

Pete started his career as a lecturer at the University of Manchester before moving into the industry as a freelance consultant and then a development manager for a scientific computing company.

In 1986 he founded Mosaic Technology Limited, an electronic design consultancy based in Manchester and today he is director of engineering at Norcott Technologies a premier electronic design and contract manufacturing company based in Widnes serving start-ups, blue chip multinational companies and academic or research institutions.

He passionately believes that everyone should have the opportunity to engage with computer science, coding, electronics and digital making in a fun and supportive environment. 

Fantastic achievement

Explaining how lunchtime programming lessons on a rudimentary computer at the Bolton Institute of Technology set him on the road to university and to the computer engineering sector, Pete finished with a salutary message to the former students: "Today, you're at a crossroads.

"You've taken three or four years of your life to build a solid vehicle for your future journey.

"This graduation ceremony cements that fantastic achievement and I offer my heartfelt congratulations to you all."

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