On behalf of the SC'96 Executive Conference Committee it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to SC'96, the ninth in this series of conferences. This year's program is focused around the theme Computers at Work, and you will be able to obtain a wealth of information on the latest developments in the application of high performance computing and communications technologies. We recognize that the use of these technologies in the industrial and commercial sector is critical to its continued success and vitality. We have organized a superb technical program, and in addition to attending the technical papers, tutorials, roundtables and panel discussions, exhibitor forum and poster presentations, take time to visit the exciting industry and research exhibits, centrally located within the convention center.

We start each day with a featured plenary speaker. These speakers are well known in the field and are certain to have interesting, thought-provoking and challenging remarks. One session you won't want to miss is the Awards Session on Thursday afternoon, where several people will be honored.

SCinet, the on-site network designed and built especially for these conferences, vividly demonstrates the role that high-performance computing and communications technologies have played and continue to play in the economic development of the nation. This year the networking infrastructure includes a high speed network, a global wide area applications testbed, and, for the first time, a commodity ethernet connection to every booth on the show floor. And, the Opening Reception, the Poster Reception and the Conference Reception give you some time for "personal networking."

Pittsburgh is looking forward to hosting SC'96. The local officials extend their welcome and invite you to explore the many attractions, from the new Regional History Center and the Andy Warhol Museum, to the numerous shops and eateries within a few blocks of the convention center. You may know Pittsburgh as home to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates and Penguins, but Pittsburgh is also a high-tech city, and the residents are looking forward to showing you their hospitality.

We are glad you are here at SC'96-whether to renew and update your storehouse of knowledge, to renew old acquaintenances and make new ones, or to renew your spirit with the opportunity to combine your interest in technologies with the chance to visit the many interesting attractions in the Pittsburgh area. The conference committee stands ready to provide any assistance you need before, during or after the conference.

Beverly Clayton, General Chair, Supercomputing "96