On October 9, Walter Hubbard, president of PC QuickHelp, shared insights on the experiences of users with Full Self-Driving (FSD) vehicles during a panel discussion at The Jenks Center in Winchester. The forum focused on the evolving technology of autonomous vehicles, particularly Tesla models equipped with a Full Self-Driving (Supervised) subscription.
Hubbard emphasized the potential benefits of self-driving cars for individuals facing challenges such as diminished eyesight or slower reflexes due to age. He stated that these vehicles might offer assistance to those who may feel uneasy behind the wheel.
The panel featured participants who discussed their firsthand experiences with the latest Tesla models. Audience members posed questions and expressed skepticism about the technology, with some even getting a chance to experience a ride in the vehicles.
Hubbard, who has lived and worked in Winchester for many years, has a background in mechanical engineering and an MBA. He spent over three decades assisting clients with computing issues, including virus removal and data recovery. Prior to founding PC QuickHelp, he worked on turbine generators in the fossil and nuclear power sectors.
Quantum Computing Presentation
On October 23, Olivia Lanes from IBM Quantum delivered a presentation on quantum computing, addressing how it differs from classical computing and how both can coexist. She highlighted the advantages of quantum processors and discussed significant advancements towards achieving fault-tolerant quantum computing.
Lanes serves as the Global Lead for Quantum Education and Learning at IBM Quantum, where she crafts strategies to promote education in quantum technology. She has contributed to numerous learning initiatives aimed at empowering researchers and students worldwide. Under her leadership, IBM’s programs have reached a large audience, enhancing the adoption of the IBM Quantum platform.
Before joining IBM, Lanes developed quantum computing curricula for partnerships with universities and has spoken internationally on best practices in science education. She holds a B.S. in physics and astronomy from Dickinson College and a PhD in quantum physics from the University of Pittsburgh.
Upcoming events for the Wilson Science & Technology Forum include a panel discussion on November 13 led by Hubbard, featuring representatives from the Winchester Police Department, AARP, and the Winchester Co-Operative Bank. The discussion will focus on preventing fraud and is titled “Why Bad Things Happen to Good Computers.” The forum will also celebrate Thanksgiving on November 27.
All presentations from the Wilson Science & Technology Forum are recorded and available for streaming on the forum’s website. Forum meetings are held via Zoom at 10:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of each month, excluding July and August. For more information and to keep updated on future talks, visit the Jenks Center’s website or request to be added to the Forum’s mailing list.
