This HKN recognition is awarded to emphasize among electrical and computer engineers that their service to humankind is manifested not only by achievements in purely technical pursuits, but by other means, as well. HKN holds that an education based upon the acquisition of technical knowledge as well as the development of logical methods of thinking fits the engineer to achieve substantial success in many lines of endeavor.

This award shall be given annually to a young electrical and computer engineering graduate for meritorious service in the interests of humankind as evidenced by his or her past record and future promise, as well as for outstanding achievements in his or her chosen profession. The description of the character of the contributions for which this recognition may be awarded should be liberally construed by the nominators.

1. A candidate for recognition as an Outstanding Young Electrical and Computer Engineer must adhere to the following:
   1. The candidate must be a graduate from an approved program in electrical or computer engineering (not electrical technology or engineering technology) from which a B.S., B.E., M.S., M.E., or Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in electrical or computer engineering has been granted.
   2. The candidate's electrical or computer engineering degree must have been earned from a U.S. college or university.
   3. The candidate's electrical or computer engineering (or equivalent) degree must have been earned from a U.S. college or university.
   4. The candidate must not yet have reached his or her 35th birthday on May 1 of the year for which the award is granted.

2. Achievement may be in any field, including industry, education, or government. It may involve research, development, or manufacturing. It might also involve management or marketing. In making selections of candidates, their achievements will be examined for an application of basic engineering methods or principles.

3. Nominations shall be made via the official Nomination Form and shall be submitted electronically by April 1 of the award year.

4. The following may make nominations:
   1. Any member, or group of members, of HKN
   2. Any duly constituted unit of the IEEE
   3. The head of the electrical or computer engineering department of any U.S. college or university
   4. Any other individuals, or groups of individuals, who in the opinion of the HKN Award Organization Committee, are properly qualified to make nominations

5. The Jury of Award shall consist of five or more prominent American engineers, educators, or industrialists, two of whom are, preferably, present or past officers of HKN.

6. Announcement of the outstanding young engineer, honorable mentions, and finalists chosen from among the nominees by the Jury of Award will be made following the completion of a careful survey of all of the candidates' credentials. The Jury also reserves the right to make no selections when, in their opinion, no candidates with the necessary qualifications are presented. The candidate selected will receive appropriate designations by HKN as the Outstanding Young Electrical and Computer Engineer.