Techno producer, DJ and artist, Richie Hawtin has been awarded a Honorary Doctorate by Patrick Stewart at the University of Huddersfield for his contribution to music technology.

Presenting the award was Sir Patrick Stewart who famously played Captain Jean-Lic Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, and just so happens to be a chancellor at the University.

“Today I went back to University and had the great privilege to accept the Honorary Doctorate from the University of Huddersfield — a faculty renowned worldwide for its attention and innovations with technology,” Hawtin said after the ceremony on Monday.

“I thank the University of Huddersfield for the honor of this award and congratulate the graduating class from the Music & Technology faculty. At its core, technology based music is driven by the constant innovation and development of technology. It is my belief that this is what will forever keep us feeling challenged, excited and inspired for what lies just around the corner.”

In his early years, Hawtin was one of pioneers of the second wave of Detroit techno alongside John Acquaviva and their Plus 8 Records imprint. Having been born in the UK, Hawtin moved with his parents to Ontario, where he would cross the river to Detroit on weekends and quickly became a notable figure in the city’s underground techno scene.

Live long and techno, Dr. Hawtin.