Amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Slovak High Tatra Mountains, the EuroCC 2 & CoEs & CASTIEL 2 “All Hands Meeting” Intermediate Conference unfolded, marking a pivotal moment for European National Competence Centres (NCCs) and Centres of Excellence (CoEs). Portugal’s National Competence Center (NCC Portugal) played an active role in this significant event held from April 22 to 24, 2024, in Vysoké Tatry, Slovakia.
The conference commenced with warm greetings from the Project Management Team and the local hosts from NCC Slovakia, setting the stage for constructive dialogues and collaborative efforts. Representatives from the 33 partners convened to deliberate on the progress and future trajectory of the EuroCC2 Project, Castiel2, and the CoEs.
NCC Portugal’s participation was instrumental in identifying synergies among NCCs and CoEs, fostering robust discussions on specialist recruitment, impact generation, and the future trajectories of the CoEs. These discussions weren’t merely theoretical; they served as pragmatic blueprints for enhancing cohesion and maximizing impact within the EuroCC2 ecosystem.
As the conference progressed, the agenda delved into practical aspects such as funding, competencies, and strategic planning. Workshops on budget allocation with CASTIEL 2 and deliberations on the competencies of NCCs and CoEs provided invaluable insights, laying the foundation for sustainable growth within the high-performance computing landscape.
Beyond the conference rooms, participants had the opportunity to explore the picturesque surroundings, strengthening camaraderie during an excursion around the Štrbské Pleso Lake. This blend of professional discourse and recreational bonding encapsulated the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie that underpins the EuroCC2 community.
Such gatherings are instrumental in advancing collaborations aimed at fortifying Europe’s high-performance computing infrastructure, fostering excellence, and driving innovation and Portugal’s active involvement underscores the country’s commitment to spearheading initiatives that propel technological and scientific development on the European stage.
EuroCC2 Portugal looks forward to further contributing to the collective effort of strengthening Europe’s position in the realm of high-performance computing.
[Image credits: NCC Slovakia & NCC Portugal]