NQ SPARK IN:SIGHT EVENT

Join technologists, researchers, users and the curious for focussed presentations, a “fireside chat”, snacks and networking featuring: Australian Computer Society, JCU Centre for AI and Data Science Innovation (CADSI), Ethan Global, and NQ SPARK.

• Hear how AI and data are being applied to real-world challenges.
• Demystify High Performance Computing and the infrastructure that makes it possible.
• Explore the technology trends and skills shaping how we work.
• Learn about the advanced simulation, technology and research capability being established by NQ SPARK.

7 October | Engineering and Innovation Place, James Cook University

5:00-7:00pm | $15 | Bookings essential – CLICK FOR TICKETS

You don’t need to be an AI expert or know what HPC means to discover more about this exciting domain. Come because you work in the field, have a problem or idea worth exploring, want to meet others working in the space, or are simply curious about what’s possible.

NQ SPARK IN:SIGHT | AI + HPC Putting the Technology to Work brings together technologists, researchers, students, industry and the curious for an evening of technology, ideas and connections.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Expect short, accessible insights from people working across AI, data, advanced computing, research and technology, followed by an informal on-the-couch conversation exploring what the technology can actually do, where it’s heading and what opportunities it could create.

Then stay for refreshments and networking. Meet the speakers and connect with researchers, technologists, students, industry and others interested in what’s next.

GAIN different SECTOR perspectives:

JCU Centre for AI and Data Science Innovation (CADSI) | What are people actually doing with AI?  Hear how AI and data science are being applied to real-world problems and opportunities, and explore the new possibilities emerging through research and applied AI.

Ethan Global  Get past the acronyms and understand the infrastructure behind advanced computing. What is HPC? What does it enable? Why does it matter for AI? And how can researchers and organisations actually access and use this capability?

Australian Computer Society (ACS)  Explore the technology trends reshaping organisations and the workforce, from AI adoption and cyber to emerging technology, digital capability and the skills we’ll need next.

NQ SPARK  Hear how NQ SPARK is bringing together advanced simulation, immersive technology, computing, collaboration and research capability, connecting people, technology, research and industry to train, test, demonstrate, research and solve problems.

HEAR FROM EXPERTS AT THE COALFACE:

Professor Mostafa Rahimi Azghadi | James Cook University
Head of the Centre for AI and Data Science Innovation (CADSI) and Professor within JCU’s College of Science and Engineering. With expertise across machine learning, deep learning and applied AI, Professor Azghadi will share insights into how AI and data science are moving beyond theory and being applied to real-world challenges.

Sarah-Jane Peterschlingmann | Australian Computer Society
Managing Director of ATech and Queensland Chair of ACS, Sarah-Jane has a unique perspective on the changing technology landscape, emerging capability and the digital skills and workforce we’ll need next.

Mark Forster | Ethan Global, General Manager Cloud and AI
Mark Forster brings more than 30 years of experience helping harness the full potential of Cloud, Artificial Intelligence, and modern data platforms. He now oversees a network of data centres, national private cloud platform, public cloud managed services, and an expanding AI Practice. “Cloud and AI are rapidly evolving, creating both challenges and opportunities. With the right strategy, these technologies have the power to deliver extraordinary value.”

Suneetha Bodduluri | Chief Information Officer, James Cook University
PSM is JCU’s Chief Information Officer, where she leads the Technology Solutions Directorate , overseeing digital applications, infrastructure, cyber security, data, and service delivery. She brings over two decades of technology leadership and is a recipient of the Public Service Medal. Suneetha is known for driving large-scale digital transformation while balancing innovation with strong risk and governance discipline.

Cassandra Cazzulino | Executive General Manager, NQ SPARK
As Executive General Manager of NQ SPARK, Cassandra is leading the organisation through an exciting period of construction, commercialisation and growth.

With over 15 years of experience spanning innovation, entrepreneurship, operations and regional development, she has a strong track record of bringing together industry, researchers, government and entrepreneurs to build capability and deliver meaningful outcomes for North Queensland.

A collaborative leader with deep ties across the region, Cassandra drives transformational initiatives that bring people and sectors together to strengthen regional economic capability, foster innovation and enable business and industry to achieve sustainable growth.

With thanks to our venue partner | JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY