John Blaas
About John Blaas
John Blaas is a Senior HPC Operations Engineer with extensive experience in high-performance computing, particularly in AI applications. He has worked at various institutions, including NCAR and Argonne National Laboratory, and currently contributes to Lambda Labs in San Jose, California.
Current Role at Lambda
John Blaas serves as a Senior HPC Operations Engineer at Lambda, a position he has held since 2024. In this role, he focuses on high-performance computing operations, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence applications. His current work environment is remote, based in San Jose, California.
Previous Experience in High-Performance Computing
Prior to his current role, John Blaas worked at NCAR - The National Center for Atmospheric Research as a Senior HPC Systems Engineer from 2020 to 2024. He also held the position of Senior HPC Systems Administrator at the University of Colorado Boulder from 2016 to 2020. His experience includes significant contributions to high-performance computing systems, enhancing operational efficiency and performance.
Education and Academic Background
John Blaas earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer and Information Technology from Purdue University, where he studied from 2006 to 2011. His academic background laid the foundation for his career in high-performance computing and technology.
Contributions to AI Workflows at Lambda Labs
At Lambda Labs, John Blaas contributed to the development of the largest GPU cloud specifically designed for AI workflows. This initiative reflects his expertise in high-performance computing and his focus on advancing AI applications within the industry.
Early Career and Technical Roles
John Blaas began his career with various technical roles, including a position as a Linux Support Technician at The Planet in 2008. He also worked as a Photography Assistant and Student System Administrator at Purdue University. His early experiences provided him with a diverse skill set that has been beneficial throughout his career.