Fernanda Foertter
Fernanda Foertter
Senior HPC Engineer, Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Fernanda Foertter is a seasoned Senior HPC Engineer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where she has dedicated her career to advancing the field of High-Performance Computing (HPC) in climate data and analytics. With a strong background in software development, Fernanda has been instrumental in leveraging HPC technologies to enhance the precision and speed of climate modeling simulations.
Fernanda’s current research focus is on decoding atmospheric effects of gravity waves, a critical area of study that significantly influences weather patterns. Her work involves conducting ultrahigh-resolution climate simulations using the ECMWF Integrated Forecast System on Summit, the world’s most powerful supercomputer. This research, validated using reanalyzed historical weather data, offers nearly twice the detail of previous studies, providing valuable insights into predicting extreme weather events. Her contributions are pivotal in supporting the training of advanced machine learning models to improve forecasting accuracy.
Fernanda’s experience as a participant in the Gateways2023 hackathons has profoundly shaped her approach to mentoring. These events not only honed her technical skills but also instilled in her a deep understanding of the collaborative and innovative spirit that defines the HPC community. Her participation in these hackathons has given her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within HPC education, allowing her to tailor her mentoring approach to meet the diverse needs of her students.
As an undergraduate researcher in a cutting-edge field, Fernanda brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to her work. Her involvement in high-stakes climate research has equipped her with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts in an accessible manner, making her an exceptional mentor for students and researchers alike.
Fernanda’s work has the potential to significantly impact climate science and HPC applications. By advancing our understanding of atmospheric gravity waves, she is contributing to more accurate weather forecasting, which is crucial for mitigating the effects of extreme weather events. Her dedication to mentoring ensures that the next generation of HPC professionals is well-equipped to tackle the complex challenges facing our planet.
In summary, Fernanda Foertter is a highly skilled and dedicated HPC professional whose expertise in climate data and analytics, combined with her passion for mentoring, makes her an invaluable asset to the HackHPC community. Her unique blend of technical acumen and educational experience positions her as an exceptional mentor, poised to inspire and guide the next wave of HPC innovators.