ISA Celebrates New Fellows for 2026
The International Society of Automation (ISA) is excited to announce the elevation of eight distinguished individuals to the esteemed grade of ISA Fellow in 2026. This recognition highlights their remarkable contributions to the automation profession, a field that is critical for advancing technology and improving efficiency across various industries.
Recognizing the Achievements of the New Fellows
Each Fellow has demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in their respective areas:
John Cusimano
From Armexa, John has been at the forefront of pioneering cybersecurity integration in industrial automation. His leadership in ISA/IEC 62443 standards showcases his commitment to advancing education and best practices, ensuring the security of control systems through community leadership.
Sarah Fluchs
Representing Admeritia GmbH, Sarah has notably bridged the gap between control engineering and cybersecurity. Her influential research and international community involvement have made significant strides in integrating cybersecurity into the engineering of industrial automation.
Ramachandra Kerur
With contributions from Sunlux Technovations Pvt Ltd, Ramachandra has focused on developing high-reliability automation and fault-tolerant control systems. His innovations have had a considerable impact on defense and space missions, ensuring safe and uninterrupted operations in critical environments.
Rao Mannepalli
At Leidos, Rao has made significant advancements in aerospace technologies, particularly in missiles and launch vehicles. His contributions are crucial for enhancing national defense and pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
Andrew McDonald
Andrew, representing FutureofManufacturing LLC, has championed the development of a standardized communication language for packaging machinery. His work promotes innovation in manufacturing through advanced technologies and drives the digital transformation of the industry.
Glenn Anthony Merrell
Glenn leads efforts at Industrial Control Systems Security, where he has gained global recognition for his critical contributions to the field of industrial control systems security. His dedication to workforce development and the protection of critical infrastructure is commendable.
Eloise L. Roche
As part of SIS-TECH Solutions, LP, Eloise has made strides in the functional safety of process industries by shaping guidance and standards for safety instrumented systems. Her educational contributions include training courses and publications that enhance the industry's safety culture.
Constantino Seixas Filho
Constantino, from Accenture, has significantly influenced the automation field in Latin America through his pioneering efforts in education and remote operations center implementation. His work is pivotal in shaping the future of automation in Brazil.
The Importance of the Fellow Grade
Being elevated to the status of Fellow is one of the highest honors offered by ISA. This grade acknowledges the exceptional contributions made by Senior Members in both practical and academic spheres within the automation profession. ISA President Ashley Weckwerth expressed pride in recognizing these outstanding individuals. "Their remarkable achievements have propelled our industry forward," he stated.
Looking Ahead
ISA extends heartfelt congratulations to the class of 2026 Fellows. As we celebrate their accomplishments, we also look forward to future nominations, with the process for 2027 opening in June 2026. This continuous recognition of excellence ensures that the automation industry continues to thrive and innovate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of being named an ISA Fellow?
ISA Fellow is one of the highest honors bestowed by the International Society of Automation, recognizing significant contributions to the field.
How often does ISA recognize new Fellows?
ISA recognizes new Fellows annually, with nominations typically opening several months in advance of the elevation announcement.
What impact do Fellows have on the automation community?
Fellows contribute significantly to the advancement of standards, education, and practices within the automation field, serving as leaders and innovators.
Can anyone nominate an individual for ISA Fellow status?
Nominations can be submitted by existing members of ISA, reflecting the peers' recognition of an individual's contributions.
What is the mission of ISA?
The mission of the International Society of Automation is to empower the global automation community through standards, knowledge sharing, and education.
