Our paths with Joe crossed in 2000, when he moved to the ALMA project at ESO. There he played an essential role in leading the team that defined the overall ALMA software architecture. He became Deputy to the European Manager of the ALMA Computing IPT (Integrated Product Team (IPT), before being appointed acting head of the team in November 2010.
According to Jorge Ibsen, our Head of Computing, “He was a mentor to many of us who were part of the ALMA construction team in computing, always challenging and motivating us to push the limits of what was possible. He was a colleague, a mentor and, most importantly, a very good friend. I was very lucky to work with him and learn from him. I will miss him very much.”
“Joe had an amazing faith in the progress made possible by technology and in the perfectibility of the software we produced. We normally gain in cynicism with age, but Joe only collected new enthusiasms. He was a close colleague and good friend for almost 20 years. He always had the best motives and usually had good results. We will miss him,” says Brian Glendenning, former Head of ICT-NA.
I had the opportunity of working with Joe Schwartz when I was part of the EU ALMA Computing IPT in 2011. He had very good insights, and listened carefully to everyone. Did not manage to interact that much with him, but it is a real pity to see him go. Rest in peace, Joe!