Ross Judd, a longtime professor in McMaster University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, Officer of the Order of the Professional Engineers Ontario’s Order of Honour, and respected mentor to faculty, alumni and students alike, passed away on August 28 at the age of 89.
For generations of Mechanical Engineering students, Judd’s name and booming voice – he liked to say that his mother told him he was, “born with the volume turned full up” – was synonymous with Heat Transfer, and he was known for his fundamental research in nucleate boiling and heat generation.
Speaking to Judd’s storied legacy as a world-class educator, Greg Wohl, chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, reflects on his outsized impact on the McMaster Engineering community. “Dr. Judd was a legend and an iconic figure in Mechanical Engineering at McMaster,” says Wohl.
“He taught Heat Transfer every year from 1961 to 2023, so almost every undergraduate student who passed through mechanical engineering up to the graduating class of 2024 took the course with Dr. Judd.”
Emily Newell (‘18), a McMaster graduate and clinical engineer at the University Health Network, notes that Judd’s genuine care for his students is what set him apart. “His kindness and sincere care for his students was unparalleled,” says Newell. “It was an honour to be one of his pupils.”
Throughout his career, Judd published over 40 journal papers and three book chapters. He also supervised 30 Master’s students and five Ph.D. students, while continuing to serve on additional Ph.D. supervisory committees after his retirement. He was also the Warden of Camp XIII, which helps to direct new Canadian engineers toward a consciousness of their profession and its social significance, and oversaw numerous Iron Ring ceremonies throughout his time as a faculty member.
Reflecting on Judd’s remarkable career that spanned over half a century, Heather Sheardown, Dean of McMaster Engineering, recalls his dedication to his work.
His passion for fundamental research in nucleate boiling and heat generation was unmistakable, and his commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on all who learned from him.
Another of Judd’s former students, Klaus Werner (’07), reflects on Judd’s legacy and impact on the field of engineering. “Dr. Judd was an icon, an incredible teacher and a mentor. [His] impact on future engineers will be missed.”
Judd was lauded for his work in the field of engineering. In 2002, he was inducted as a member of the Professional Engineers of Ontario’s Order of Honour for championing professional ethics among engineers and students alike, and in 2014, he became an Officer of the Order of Honour.
I have always considered Ross to be a fundamental part of McMaster – an institution in his own right. Not just because of how long he has been a faculty member, but because of his dedication to the students and to the Department. Ross has always been an inspiration to our students. His knowledge and passion for heat transfer are legendary amongst the students.
And for Mostafa Yakout (’19), assistant professor at the University of Alberta and McMaster Engineering alumnus, Judd’s impact can be felt throughout the Canadian engineering industry. “Dr. Judd leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of mentorship, leadership and dedication that has shaped generations of engineers across Canada.”
In 2023, a sugar maple tree was planted outside John Hodgins Engineering building to commemorate the impact Judd had on the McMaster community.
As part of the ceremony, Judd was asked to say a few words. “I’m sure you’re all aware of the adage, ‘If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life’,” he said.
“That’s how I feel. I love teaching heat transfer.”
Ross Judd Memorial Fund
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Ross Judd Memorial Fund at McMaster University, in honour of his enduring legacy and commitment to mechanical engineering.
Ross Judd’s obituary can be found here.