#Safetyfirst – Events at the IT Center
Source: Own illustration
In November 2020, RWTH Aachen University together with TU Darmstadt were accepted into the National High Performance Computing Network (NHR Network). RWTH Aachen University and TU Darmstadt, together with the other six computing centers in the NHR network, are creating optimal framework conditions by establishing a joint infrastructure and offering the best possible support for high-performance computing for scientists* at German universities.
Within the framework of NHR4CES, new structures and new teams are being created to conduct joint, cross-university research and user support. A good cooperation between the colleagues from Aachen and Darmstadt is essential to ensure the success of the project. For this reason, we have organized a team event for the employees of both locations on September 08, 2021, to enable the best possible start by getting to know each other personally.
The purpose of this team-building measure was, in addition to the personal exchange of scientists, the establishment of a network of NHR4CES employees and responsible persons and thus a professional “on-boarding” for this measure, which is designed for at least 5 years.
After the first day took place outside the RWTH in the castle Frankenberg, they met on the second day exactly one month ago from 08:00 – 13:00 in the IT Center of the RWTH. The day was spent in small groups, where the participants got to know the research and work of their colleagues.
Despite great joy about this piece of old normality, the request posed additional challenges for the event management. For example, special permits were required to hold the event, as well as a hygiene concept to be able to welcome and entertain the nearly 50 people. In addition to the usual dispensers and a number of other disinfectant containers, 52 bar tables in the foyer also provided sufficient distance and safety during the consumption of the lunches. In addition, the 3G rule was still essential, so we could only grant admission to vaccinated, recovered or tested persons with the appropriate proof.
Keeping a distance, observing hygiene and everyday life with a mask has now become pandemic normality – both in everyday life and during our attendance events. This is the only way we can continue to ensure the safety and health of all participants at our events if everyone adheres to the rules.
The participants were very happy about the personal exchange during this event and felt it was important to have this team event take place locally. With this kick-off event, all NHR4CES employees and managers can start into this project full of euphoria and energy.
We would like to thank all participants, our HPC office and the colleagues involved for this great event.
Our wish: To be able to continue offering face-to-face events at the IT Center in 2022, to toast to the time we have spent together and to strengthen the team spirit at such events. The IT Center event management team wishes continued good health. Take care of yourselves – see you soon!
Responsible for the content of this article is Dunja Gath.
