Jack Mackenzie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Chalmers Jack Mackenzie
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Chalmers Jack Mackenzie (on left) receiving honorary degree from the University of British Columbia. October 1947
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| Born | July 10, 1888 St. Stephen, New Brunswick, Canada
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| Died | February 26, 1984 (aged 95) |
| Awards | Order of Canada, Fellow of the Royal Society |
Chalmers Jack Mackenzie (July 10, 1888 – February 26, 1984) was an important Canadian engineer. He helped shape science and engineering education in Canada. He also led several major organizations. These included the National Research Council and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited.
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Early Life and Education
Jack Mackenzie was born in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. He was the youngest of six children. His parents were James and Janet MacKenzie. He went to Milltown High School. Later, he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree. This was from Dalhousie University in 1909.
A Career in Engineering
In 1912, Jack Mackenzie began a new challenge. He was hired to create an engineering program. This was at the University of Saskatchewan. His work helped many students learn about engineering.
Serving in World War I
During World War I, he served in the Canadian Army. He was a soldier from 1915 to 1918. After the war, he returned to his work. He continued at the University of Saskatchewan until 1932.
Leading Public Works
In 1932, he took a break from the university. He supervised many public works projects. These projects helped build important things for communities.
National Research Council
In 1939, he moved to Ottawa. He became the president of the National Research Council. This group helps with scientific research in Canada. In 1943, he received the Sir John Kennedy Medal for his work.
Shaping Canadian Research
In 1949, he joined the "Massey Commission." This was a special group called the Royal Commission on National Development in the Arts, Letters and Sciences. One of its main goals was to develop Canada's system for publicly funded research. This means research paid for by the government.
Awards and Recognition
Jack Mackenzie received many honors for his contributions.
- In 1967, he was made a Companion of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest honors.
- He also received honorary degrees from many universities. These included the University of Saskatchewan, the University of British Columbia, and Queen's University.
Lasting Legacy
Jack Mackenzie's work continues to be remembered.
- The Mackenzie Engineering Building at Carleton University is named after him.
- A high school in Deep River, Ontario is also named in his honor. It is called Mackenzie Community School.
