Martin Schulz Elected General Chair of the SC28 Conference
School |
Every year, the SC Conference brings together up to 18,000 international experts from science, research and industry to present the latest developments in high-performance computing (HPC), discuss current technologies and topics such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing, and exchange knowledge and ideas. It takes place every November at different locations in the USA.
“The SC conference series is unique because it brings together the entire HPC world in one place—research, industry, students, infrastructure teams, funding organizations and many other groups,” explains Martin Schulz, Professor of Computer Architecture and Parallel Systems. Its particular strength lies in the interplay of scientific excellence, technological innovation and a strong industrial presence. “This enables SC to create an atmosphere in which people can meet, exchange ideas and work together on the challenges of the future. This combination of expertise, community spirit and historical significance makes it a very special event every year,” Schulz continues.
From Participant to General Chair
The decisive factor in his appointment as General Chair was above all Schulz’s extensive experience in many areas of SC—for example, as Exhibits Chair with responsibility for planning and strategic design of the 2023 industry exhibition, as head of the technical program at SC25, and, since 2025, as a member of the conference steering committee. He has also been an active participant and academic contributor since 2001, which has given him a deep understanding of the participating community.
As General Chair of the SC28, Martin Schulz now has overall responsibility for the conception, planning and execution of the entire conference—including the technical program, exhibition and outreach activities. Other key tasks include leading the organizing committee of nearly 1,000 people, coordinating the various teams and making strategic decisions. He is also responsible for ensuring that the quality, continuity and mission of the SC are maintained.
Further Development in Times of Strong Growth
In 2028, SC will celebrate its 40th anniversary—a special occasion to commemorate the past, present and future of the HPC community. In light of the conference’s steady growth, Schulz’s vision is to more closely integrate the three core areas of technical program, exhibits and outreach. He is focusing in particular on networking and digital support, as well as promoting new formats that further connect science and industry. Despite the breadth of topics covered, the core HPC themes should remain visible and prominent.
In his role as General Chair, Martin Schulz is particularly looking forward to further developing the central conference of the global HPC community together with a group of dedicated colleagues: “The opportunity to strengthen this community, pick up on trends, introduce new formats and at the same time preserve the typical ‘SC spirit’ really motivates me.”