December 2024 PMI-MC Monthly Chapter Event

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PMI-Montgomery County MD Chapter December 2024 Monthly Virtual Event
Wednesday,  December 4th 2024
In-Person Valid Member Price: $10 (HOLIDAY SPECIAL!)
In-Person Non-Member/Guest Price: $55
Virtual Member  / Non Member Price: $0.00
Topic: How can we support the future of AI : A presentation and fireside chat on Quantum Computing
PDU: 1.5 – Business Acumen
Presenter: Mr. Ron Smith (Senior Physicist, 4S Silversword)
Presentation Abstract:

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, the need for more advanced computational power becomes increasingly critical. Traditional computing systems, while incredibly powerful, are reaching the limits of their ability to handle the complex, data-intensive demands of next-generation AI applications. This presentation and fireside chat will explore how quantum computing could be the key to unlocking AI’s full potential, providing the computational capabilities required for groundbreaking advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and optimization problems.

Ongoing development of computer chips that will support powerful artificial intelligence systems has achieved remarkable progress. Present day state of the art is represented by
the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Frontier supercomputer developed by HPE.

Parameters of this system include:
 64 bit words
 10 million cores
 10 18 floating point operations per second (exascale)

As emerging systems press the limits of chip density, they face significant challenges, including power and thermal management, signal crosstalk and importantly, interconnect
density. Chip edge connectors have hundreds of pins, but still limit the achievable interconnect throughput and scalability of systems.

We will begin with an overview of quantum computing fundamentals, examining its principles, such as superposition and entanglement, and how they differ from classical computing. We will then discuss the intersection of quantum computing and AI, including how quantum algorithms could revolutionize AI model training, problem-solving, and decision-making processes. Following the presentation, a dynamic fireside chat with Board Member Mr. Bill Ziegler will delve deeper into the current project management challenges and opportunities at the intersection of AI and quantum computing. Together, we will explore the future implications of quantum-enhanced AI, including ethical considerations, technical hurdles, and the role of industry collaboration in driving progress.

Join us for an engaging discussion on how quantum computing could support the next frontier of AI innovation and what steps we can take to accelerate its adoption and impact.

Learning Objectives: 

  1. Evaluate the Potential Impact of Quantum Computing on AI Projects: Project managers will learn how quantum computing can influence AI-related projects, enabling them to assess its potential to solve complex problems, improve efficiency, and drive innovation in AI initiatives.
  2. Understand the Integration of Quantum Computing into AI Project Roadmaps: Attendees will gain insights into how to incorporate quantum computing advancements into AI project plans, including key milestones, resource allocation, and risk management considerations for adopting emerging technologies.
  3. Identify Key Risks and Opportunities in Quantum-AI Project Management: Project managers will develop the skills to identify and mitigate risks associated with integrating quantum computing into AI projects, while also leveraging opportunities for collaboration, funding, and strategic partnerships to support future project success.
Presenter Bio:
Mr. Ron Smith is a Senior Physicist at 4S Silver Sword, with a distinguished career spanning several decades in the field of optical and communications technologies. With a strong academic foundation, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and pursued graduate-level studies in Fourier Optics at Stanford University.

Throughout his career, Mr. Smith has made significant contributions to the advancement of optical systems, particularly in areas intersecting with high-performance computing and mobile platform technologies. He is the co-inventor of a frequency comb-based optical interconnect system designed for exaflop processor networks, as well as a free-space optical communications system tailored for mobile platforms. His innovative work includes developing concepts for airborne dispersed phase array antennas and multicore optical fiber gyro coils, laying the foundation for groundbreaking applications in communications and navigation systems. Mr. Smith’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Optelecom-NKF, Inc., where he developed a custom optical fiber coil winding process that generated over $1M in annual revenue. His leadership also helped foster the creation of a consortium focused on the development of Fly-by-light technology, an effort that earned him the prestigious Pride @ Boeing Award in May 2005.

As an inventor and innovator, Mr. Smith holds 10 issued patents, having drafted the technical sections for these patents and personally prosecuting two to issuance. His technical expertise also spans the design of optical fiber-based solutions for tethered vehicle communication and control, as well as the development of optical absolute position and angle encoder technologies. Additionally, his passion for advancing broadband optical communications and switching technology has had a lasting impact on the industry.

In his pursuit of knowledge and thought leadership, Mr. Smith authored Transportation 2030, a comprehensive publication on the future of transportation infrastructure, available on Amazon Books. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of optical and communication technologies has also led to numerous presentations at conferences, where he has shared his research and insights on optical fiber technology.

A visionary leader and seasoned expert, Mr. Smith continues to contribute to cutting-edge developments in optical technologies and is recognized for his strategic thinking and impactful innovations in both industry and academia.

Location:

That’s Amore Restaurant, 15201 Shady Grove Rd #1, Rockville, MD 20850  (Downstairs Banquet Entrance)

Speaker will be in-person at restaurant with simulcast video option available via Zoom 

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Registration Check-In Opens at 5:30pm (Social Hour Begins)

Dinner Service starts NLT 6:45pm

Zoom Room Opens @ 7:15pm

Chapter Business Remarks No Earlier Than @ 7:30pm

Mr. Smith’s Presentation w/ Q&A to follow – NLT 7:40pm

Program concludes No Later Than @ 9:00pm
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