James
Newman
Class of 1988
Background:
Born in England, January 14, 1942, James Newman moved to Canada
with his family in 1951. He received his Bachelor of Science
and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering degrees from
the University of Waterloo in 1965. Following further graduate
studies at Princeton University, where he received his master's
degree in aerospace and mechanical science, he received his
doctorate in mechanical engineering from the University of
Waterloo in 1969.
Professional
Experience:
As a member of the engineering faculty at the University of
Ottawa from 1969-1977, he taught a wide range of graduate
and undergraduate studies. During his tenure, he developed
a special interest in the design of protective systems and
of related test methods. Initially, his research was in the
field of protective systems in the field of athletics. This
led to the development of the contemporary hockey helmet.
Subsequent work in the area of head protection for industrial,
automotive and police applications has contributed significantly
to these fields. In 1977, he undertook the engineering directorship
of Biokinetics and Associates Ltd. This private institute
continues to specialize in the assessment and development
of life-support and protective systems.
Dr. Newman
lectured extensively throughout the world on the biomechanics
of trauma while continuing to teach advanced courses in engineering
design and biomechanics at both Ottawa Universities.
Career
Highlights:
He published and coauthored over 100 papers in the field of
protective systems. He continued to be active in both professional
and research organizations. He chaired the Canadian Advisory
Committee to the International Standards Organization on Head
Protection, and several Canadian Standards Association technical
committees including: Protective Hats and Caps, Riot Helmets
and Faceshields, and Safety Helmets for Motorcycle Riders.
He was a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and
a reviewer of technical publications on the Automotive Passenger
Protective Committee. He was a co-organizer of technical programs
for the Canadian Conference on Protective Equipment and a
member of the Scientific Program Committee for the American
Association for Automotive Medicine. He was active on the
Canadian Sports, Spine and Head Injuries Research Advisory
Board.
