Craig Tierney, high-performance computing

The NOAA High Performance Computing (HPC) team is the engine that runs many CIRES scientists' research and Craig Tierney has been a driving force at HPC. His deep knowledge of high performance computing systems and innovative approach has lead to significant improvements in computing capabilities that have served not only CIRES, but other NOAA centers and the HPC community as a whole. In addition to his outstanding performance at his normal duties, in August 2009 Craig voluntarily assumed the role of acting HPC lead; for the next 16 months Craig provided strong leadership in managing all aspects of NOAA Boulder's HPC resources. During his tenure as acting lead, he managed a re-compete of HPC systems and effectively utilized $170 million in stimulus funding, which will transition NOAA to a centralized computer model. Just one example of his skills was his key role in developing and managing the high performance computer system for the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Project. This system ranked 50th on November 2010's Top 500 Supercomputer List and makes Boulder the largest NOAA-managed HPC site. In just one year, it helped scientists achieve the 5-year goal of a 20% improvement in hurricane track and intensity forecasts. The system provides the crucial efficiency and reliability required for real-time support. Craig has also been instrumental in forming the Front Range Computing Research Consortium, a collaborative effort between NCAR, Colorado State University, Colorado School of Mines, DOE/NREL, NOAA, and the University of Colorado to promote collaborative research in high performance computing.