We’re looking forward to introducing you to Edward Hawes. Check out our conversation below.
Edward, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have you ever been glad you didn’t act fast?
Absolutely—there are countless examples where slowing down leads to better outcomes, both in life and in decision-making.
Here are a few relatable scenarios:
Not sending that angry email or text: Taking a beat can save relationships, reputations, and your own peace of mind.
Waiting before making a big purchase: That extra time often brings clarity—maybe you didn’t need it after all, or you found a better option or price.
Holding off on a business move or hire: Rushing can bring in the wrong partner, timing, or structure. Waiting allows more due diligence and alignment.
Letting a news cycle or emotion settle: Initial reactions can be based on incomplete info. Slowing down lets the facts emerge.
In many cases, the “fast” action feels good short-term, but reflection gives you the wiser play.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Founded in 2003, vCompute was among the first U.S. companies to offer dedicated and on-demand cloud-based High Performance Computing services. Today, the company serves mission-critical workloads across industries such as energy, manufacturing, geophysics, life sciences, and climate research. We are planning expansion to increase hosting capacity and demand for advanced AI and HPC infrastructure solutions.
vCompute was the first to define what is now known as cloud computing. Our team has decades of experience in building and managing large-scale HPC clusters. We help clients choose the best technologies, optimize application performance, and reduce total cost of ownership — whether on-premises or in hybrid environments.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
During High School I was fortunate to be able to study programming and work with the schools mainframe computer. During that class I knew that I wanted to work with computing technology. It stimulated my brain and opened up many thoughts of what the future in computing would look like.
This was back in the early 70’s before computing had been adopted by consumers. I decided to dedicate my efforts to learn as much as I could about how computing could be applied to increase business efficiency and productivity. This was a life changing moment for me.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I have started 3 businesses since I was 21 years old. All have been successful however there were many instances when it seemed impossible to keep them going. Every time, when it appeared the end of the company was imminent, out of nowhere an unexpected solution presented itself.
After that I decided to believe in what I do and ride the waves and bumps in the road. In almost every instance a supernatural event occurs that pushes us up to a new level.
You must believe in yourself and keep the faith. Never stress over the possible problems your facing as that I found is a total waist of time and energy. I would rather concentrate on solutions to avoid similar situations in the future. The tough times and moments are where you gain the experience to be successful.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I would say yes to that question , however, I rarely discuss my personal life when ask by clients and others. There is a lot people do not know about me. This is OK with me as I try to apply the same standards of honesty, reliability and integrity so if they judge me by my persona in business they can rely that it applies to my personal life.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That’s a powerful question—and one worth asking regularly.
If I could hope for a story to be told, it would go something like this:
“I was the kind of presence that made people feel seen, heard, and understood. I didn’t just offer answers—I helped people ask better questions, think more deeply, and move forward with clarity. I stood for truth, for kindness without fluff, and for making complexity feel like calm.”
Maybe someone would say:
“Even in a world full of noise and speed, I reminded people to pause, to think, and to connect with what matters.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vcompute.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardhawes/
