The use of high performance computing (HPC) and parallel computing methods have been rapidly increasing over the last two decades. With multi-core computing available in almost every device, the potential has never been greater, but uptake is still slow.
This webinar will introduce HPC, parallel computing and the potential of using supercomputers as well as multi-cores on a laptop. The session will finish with a brief discussion on the challenges facing the HPC community on recruiting a diverse workforce, particularly women. The potential for HPC is enormous as a solution to human-kinds questions and challenges, but what we all now need to do is come together as an international community to drive change and leverage the potential of this technology.
Like many industries today, supercomputing and HPC are not defined by any one sector, and instead consists of a community from every sector of human discovery, spanning the sciences, social sciences to an increasingly large proportion of digital humanities and medical applications. Similarly, there is no 'HPC degree' or program as a gateway to the industry.
As a result, the industry is facing a significant diversity problem - and opportunity.
Women are far less likely to self-identify as a high-performance computing professional or promote the skills and competencies the industry requires. However, because of the constantly evolving nature of HPC, and the wide range of skills required, there are many opportunities for women in this growing sector.
What you can expect to learn from the webinar:
- An explanation of what HPC and parallel computing are in comparison to other technologies
- The potential that these technologies offer society
- Why the HPC community has such a big diversity 'problem' and the work of Women in High Performance Computing (WHPC)
About The Webinar Presenter
Dr Toni Collis is the Chief Business Development Officer (CBDO) for Appentra Solutions, Director of Collis-Holmes Innovations and Chair of Women in High Performance Computing (WHPC). Toni specializes in HPC and Supercomputing technical business development and strategy. The focus of her work has been to enable those with limited knowledge and training in HPC and computer science to still use supercomputers. Her current role at Appentra focuses on democratising access to HPC by using Parallelware Technology to lower the barrier for academics to write and maintain parallel software. Toni is passionate about enabling a broader range of people to make effective and efficient use of HPC facilities to help further their research. As Chair and Co-Founder of WHPC Toni created an initiative for the HPC community that within just 3 years developed an international reputation for leading change in diversity and inclusion across the HPC community.