Preparing the next generation of computing professionals is essential to sustaining progress in HPC and AI–driven science. The ALCF advances this goal by expanding the talent pipeline and engaging students, educators, and researchers through targeted outreach, training, and internship opportunities.
Student Outreach
The ALCF supports programs that introduce students to coding, computational thinking, and scientific research to encourage interest in computer science. Each December, staff volunteer in Chicagoland schools for the Hour of Code, a global initiative that teaches basic programming skills and promotes broader participation in computer science. The facility also works with middle school students through programs like Introduce a Generation to Engineering Day, where participants meet Argonne researchers and learn about STEM careers.
For high school students, the ALCF contributes to hands-on learning experiences focused on computational science and data-driven research. Argonne’s Coding for Science Camp and Big Data Camp provide training in programming, data science, and problem-solving methods used in research. ALCF staff also mentor students in the ACT-SO High School Research Program, supporting them as they complete independent research projects using Argonne’s computing resources.
Hands-On Training and Career Development
At the college level, the ALCF offers practical learning through its annual summer student program. Programs such as DOE’s Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI) and Argonne research aide positions allow undergraduate and graduate students to work with ALCF mentors on real-world projects in areas including HPC system administration, data analytics, computational science, and AI-driven workflows.
In addition to summer programs, the ALCF provides year-round training opportunities. The “Intro to AI-Driven Science on Supercomputers” series introduces students to the use of AI and supercomputing in research and, since its start in 2021, has reached more than 700 participants nationwide.
For more advanced instruction, the ALCF hosts the Argonne Training Program on Extreme-Scale Computing (ATPESC), a two-week intensive program focused on the skills needed to use leading supercomputers. Since 2013, over 900 participants have completed the program, gaining experience in areas such as programming methods, numerical algorithms, HPC systems, scientific machine learning, and data analysis. The program also helps participants build professional connections and advance their careers in computational science.
Through the ALCF Lighthouse Initiative, the facility partners with universities across the country to expand access to the ALCF’s HPC and AI resources, training, and expertise. The program helps faculty and staff scale their research on leadership-class systems while creating new opportunities for students to engage in research and internships. Initial partners include Purdue University, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Wyoming, and University of Chicago, with additional universities joining soon.
Recruitment and Community Engagement
The ALCF engages with potential talent and shares career opportunities by participating in major conferences and industry events. Staff connect with students and professionals at events such as SC (Supercomputing), the Grace Hopper Celebration, and other workshops, showcasing the facility’s contributions to science and technology.
The ALCF also contributes to strengthening professional networks for women in HPC. Working with the University of Illinois Chicago, the facility helped create the Chicago Women in High Performance Computing (WHPC) chapter, which supports participation in the field through mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities.
Through these outreach and engagement efforts, the ALCF continues to expand the community of researchers and professionals working with HPC and AI, supporting ongoing progress in science and engineering.