Eric Wait

Eric is a strategic technology leader at the University of Wisconsin–Madison Data Science Institute (DSI). He brings over 12 years of experience developing production-grade, open-source GPU-accelerated machine learning (ML) libraries widely adopted globally. His technical expertise is grounded in a PhD specializing in GPU systems, which he leverages to bridge the gap between technical execution and high-level strategy.

With 21 years of military leadership experience, Eric excels at cross-functional alignment and operational discipline under pressure. He is passionate about removing the “admin tax” from technical teams to enable high-velocity innovation and ensuring that technical excellence directly aligns with institutional goals. Eric is dedicated to his role as a “Force Multiplier,” providing the infrastructure and strategic guidance necessary for DSI to scale its impact across the university.

As Associate Director, Eric oversees DSI’s Data Science Services and leads the institute’s infrastructure design and requirements gathering. His core focus areas include:

• Management & Oversight: Managing DSI’s data science staff to ensure project alignment and professional growth
• Project & Infrastructure Lead: Steering project assignments, infrastructure design, and capacity forecasting in alignment with DSI’s long-term vision
• Strategic Partnerships: Managing relationships across the university and with external partners to identify new opportunities for collaboration
• Ambassador for DSI: Driving outreach and engagement to secure projects and funding for DSI initiatives, including RISE and internally-funded projects