Barry Hughes
Barry Hughes was an emeritus professor who, through his will, set up a bursary to financially support Engineering students.
Emeritus Professor Barry Peter Hughes (BSc Civil Engineering, 1953; PhD Civil Engineering, 1956; DSc Civil Engineering, 1972; DEng Civil Engineering, 1990), celebrated for his contributions to civil engineering, devoted much of his career to the University of Birmingham. A dedicated teacher and researcher, he mentored numerous students, offering guidance and support as they pursued their professional paths. Through the establishment of the B. P. Hughes bursary, Barry wanted to continue his legacy of aiding undergraduate and postgraduate students facing financial challenges.
Born on 29 August 1932, Barry grew up as the youngest of four brothers, inheriting a passion for craftsmanship from his father, a master carpenter. Educated at Wolverhampton Grammar School, he pursued civil engineering, graduating from the University of Birmingham in 1953 and earning his doctorate in 1956. Barry's personal life was equally fulfilling, marked by a lifelong partnership with his beloved wife, Anne. Together, they raised three children and cherished moments with grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
Barry's professional achievements include higher doctorates in 1972 and 1990, along with leadership roles in esteemed engineering organisations. Before academia, he also gained experience in the private sector, working with renowned companies. Barry’s scholarly contributions spanned diverse topics, from concrete design theory to water-retaining structures. His expertise extended to major projects like the Channel Tunnel and the Great Man-Made River in Libya, highlighting his global impact. Beyond academia, Barry enjoyed pursuits such as sailing and travel, creating cherished memories with Anne. His commitment to excellence and compassion leaves an enduring imprint on civil engineering and the lives he touched.
Barry sadly passed away in May 2023. The establishment of the B. P. Hughes bursary not only honours his remarkable life but also ensures that his passion for supporting aspiring engineers lives on, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence and compassion in their pursuits. Enhancing the diversity and socio-economic range within the School of Engineering has significantly enriched its environment and dismantled certain obstacles to higher education. However, it has also resulted in an increased number of students seeking assistance.
The award covers various expenses for postgraduate and undergraduate students including travel, attendance at training courses, conferences and career advancement events, as well as unexpected losses of income or changes in circumstances impacting caring responsibilities.
PhD student Jixuan was awarded the bursary and told us how it has elevated their research and created new opportunities: “Receiving this award has inspired me to strive for excellence. This honour is not only a recognition for me but also for the support of my work. I was able to attend the conference and gain a lot of feedback on my research, and the paper from the conference was successfully published.”
The bursary has helped students in many ways including covering essential costs such as laptops and equipment, travel costs to attend conferences and also for those who have lost income unexpectedly. One student, who had just lost their job, said they were ‘applying for the bursary because [they are] deeply committed to pursuing [their] academic and career goals, but [they are] currently facing significant financial challenges’. The bursary allows talented students to continue their studies, with fewer financial worries.
Barry was remarkable during his lifetime, and he is still doing incredible things and providing crucial help for students in need to this day. The award not only pays tribute to his legacy but also highlights his commitment to fostering the growth of aspiring engineers, serving as inspiration for future generations to embrace excellence and compassion in their pursuits.
“The B. P. Hughes award was a life saver for me at the time I was struggling to find a source to fund my EUROSTEEL conference attendance in Amsterdam last year. This conference has provided me with the opportunity to represent the University and present my work to a world platform and receive constructive feedback from subject experts. This was really beneficial for me to realise the impact of my work, the areas I should focus and improve, has boosted my confidence and was really a good preparation for me to attend my thesis defence in few months. I am really thankful for that opportunity, which was only possible with the support of the award. This kind of award is really a big inspiration for young research students like me.”