The oldest faculty of Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology celebrates its 75th anniversary. During the jubilee ceremony, the title of Doctor Honoris Causa was conferred upon Professor Józef Gawlik.

The establishment of the Faculty in 1951 marked the beginning of the history of Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology – then known as the Evening School of Engineering. This event also signified the birth of higher education in Bydgoszcz. Throughout its 75 years of existence, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering has been an integral part of the university’s structure. Today, it carries out numerous research projects and educates students in fields such as Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, and Biomedical Engineering.

The 75th anniversary is a tribute to the effort, work, and dedication of many generations of scholars, staff, alumni, and representatives of companies and institutions associated with the Faculty. It is also an opportunity for reflection and for thinking about the future. “As we shape the university’s development plans, we remain mindful of its engineering and mechanical heritage,” says Professor Marek Adamski, Rector of Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology.

During the jubilee ceremony, the highest academic distinction was awarded to Professor Józef Gawlik — an outstanding scholar in the field of technical sciences, and a specialist in production and mechanical engineering. He is a highly respected expert in areas such as manufacturing process automation, precision material machining, and the monitoring of tool conditions and product quality. Professor Gawlik is the author or co-author of over 250 publications and 13 patents. His research results have been widely applied by numerous companies and manufacturing plants. His achievements also include active involvement in the Polish Academy of Engineering, where he has been deeply committed to the advancement of modern technologies and the promotion of Polish innovation both at home and abroad.

For many years, Professor Józef Gawlik has played a significant role in shaping the development of Cracow University of Technology, serving among others as its Vice-Rector and Rector.

Professor Gawlik’s professional path has often led him from Małopolska to Bydgoszcz — to our Faculty of Mechanical Engineering — resulting in the development of strong research collaboration between Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology and Cracow University of Technology. This cooperation has included, among other things, the creation of joint scientific consortia, the organization of conferences and symposia, the promotion of research activities, and the professional development of our university’s staff — for which we express our sincere gratitude, says Professor Marek Adamski, Rector of Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology.

During the 75th anniversary celebrations, Professor Józef Szala was also honored. The Senate Chamber of Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology was named in his memory. Professor Szala served as Rector of the university and was a world-renowned expert in the assessment of durability and strength of materials and structural components. He was also a supervisor and mentor to many members of the academic staff.