Have you ever wondered how other institutions structure their Research Computing and Data (RCD) programs? What challenges did they face when getting started, and how did they overcome obstacles to grow into successful operations? We’re happy to announce that all CaRCC RCD Program Stories are now available in one convenient location on our website.
Real-World Insights
Our comprehensive collection of RCD Program Stories offers an invaluable resource for anyone involved in research computing and data services. These in-depth Q&A-style interviews with program leaders provide fascinating insights into how different institutions approach the challenges and opportunities of supporting computational research.
Each story highlights the unique journey of how these programs began, the strategic decisions that shaped their growth, and the operational practices that keep them running effectively today. Whether you’re launching a new RCD program, looking to expand existing services, or simply curious about best practices in the field, these stories offer practical wisdom from leaders who have navigated similar paths.
Featured Programs
Currently, you can read detailed stories about RCD programs from six leading institutions:
- University of Hawaii System – Learn how Sean Cleveland’s team delivers high-performance computing and research software engineering across 10 campuses on four Hawaiian islands, tackling the unique challenges of supporting research in a distributed island environment.
- University of California, Merced – Discover how Sarvani Chadalapaka’s team at the newest UC campus supports computational research while making HPC accessible to a diverse student population as the institution rapidly grows toward R1 status.
- Cornell University – Explore how Rich Knepper’s Center for Advanced Computing finds the balance between providing reliable, high-quality services and maintaining the capacity for growth and innovation at this Ivy League research powerhouse.
- Northwestern University – Follow Jackie Milhans’ journey as she led Northwestern’s research computing team through remarkable growth, tripling the team size while staying true to core values at this $1 billion research enterprise.
- University of Oklahoma – Read Henry Neeman’s compelling story of how a conversation with a friend during a difficult time led to the creation of what became an enviable supercomputing center supporting OU’s impressive 33% research funding growth.
- Arizona State University – Learn from Douglas Jennewein about supporting one of the fastest-growing research efforts in the nation, where research expenditures have nearly doubled over the past decade to reach $905 million.
Help Grow the List!
If you’re an RCD program leader with experiences to share, we encourage you to reach out to Daphne McCanse at daphne@carcc.org. Your story could provide exactly the insight that helps another institution overcome a challenge, or realize an opportunity.