On Tuesday, November 19th, 2024, HPCwire hosted a special luncheon to honor the inaugural HPCwire 35 Legends, an annual list recognizing 35 individuals who have profoundly shaped the high-performance computing (HPC) community. The luncheon celebrated the remarkable achievements of researchers, inventors, and executives who have driven advancements in technology, science, and innovation over the past 35 years.
Front row, left to right: Satoshi Matsuoka, Thomas Sterling, Alison Kennedy, Becky J. Verastegui, John Gustafson, Thomas Zacharia, David Keyes. Back Row, Left to right: Rick Stevens, Jack Dongarra, Ian Foster, Bill Gropp, Dan Stanzione, Dan Reed, Larry Smarr, Steve Wallach.
In July 2024, HPCwire commemorated its 35th anniversary by introducing the HPCwire 35 Legends list. This initiative highlights individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the HPC sector, spanning areas such as supercomputing, software development, and industry leadership. The selection process, carried out by HPCwire editors and advisors, identifies individuals based on their transformative influence on the field. Given the depth of talent in the HPC community, HPCwire plans to expand this tradition annually, recognizing a new cohort of Legends each year.
Tom Tabor addresses the HPCwire Legends 2024.
Fittingly, today’s luncheon took place at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, located just across Marietta Street from the College Football Hall of Fame—a venue dedicated to celebrating those who have transformed their field. Similarly, the HPCwire 35 Legends list honors individuals who have redefined HPC through vision, perseverance, and groundbreaking contributions.
The event was marked by a spirit of celebration and reflection, as attendees gathered to recognize the milestones and collaborations that have propelled the HPC community forward over the past three and a half decades.
“I’ve really savored the opportunity to be in the room with some of the most brilliant people in our industry, all of whom are wholeheartedly committed to improving the quality of life on our planet,” said HPCwire Founder Tom Tabor.
The individuals honored at the luncheon represent a diverse cross-section of expertise and leadership that has driven the evolution of HPC. Their achievements underscore the importance of visionary thinking and the ability to transform bold concepts into tangible advancements, many of which have shaped industries and scientific discovery alike.
The selection process earlier in the year was both challenging and deeply rewarding. With so many extraordinary candidates whose work has left an indelible mark on the HPC field, narrowing the list to just 35 honorees required thoughtful deliberation and input from HPCwire editors and advisors. Each individual chosen represents not only personal excellence but also the collective progress of a community dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what technology can achieve.
As the luncheon drew to a close, the sense of pride and camaraderie in the room was palpable. The HPCwire 35 Legends are more than just contributors to their field—they are torchbearers for innovation and collaboration. By recognizing their achievements, HPCwire not only honors their legacy but also inspires the next generation of leaders to continue advancing the frontiers of high-performance computing.
With the tradition of the HPCwire 35 Legends just beginning, HPCwire looks forward to celebrating next year’s honorees and the stories of impact they’ll bring to the community.
This article first appeared on sister site HPCwire.
