A photo of former JILA electronics shop member Carl Sauer
Carl Sauer, a distinguished electrical engineer, passed away on February 2nd, 2025. He is survived by his wife and two sons, Carl and Evan. Sauer's passion for electrical engineering led him to a remarkable career marked by innovation and dedication.
Sauer earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with honors from Michigan State University in 2002. He then completed a graduate certificate in engineering management from University of Colorado Boulder in 2020 and was pursuing a master's degree in engineering management at CU Boulder at the time of his passing.
Sauer began his professional journey at JILA, a renowned joint institute of the University of Colorado Boulder and NIST (the National Institute of Standards and Technology), where he contributed significantly to the electronics shop. His work at JILA was instrumental in supporting various research initiatives, reflecting his commitment to advancing scientific understanding.
In 2019, Sauer joined Honeywell Quantum Solutions as an Advanced Electrical Engineer, where he played a pivotal role in developing cutting-edge quantum computing technologies. His expertise and innovative approach were invaluable in advancing the field. Following the merger that formed Quantinuum, Sauer continued his work as a Senior Advanced Electrical Engineer, contributing to groundbreaking projects that have left a lasting impact on the industry.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sauer was known for his collaborative spirit and mentorship. He was always willing to share his knowledge and inspire others in electrical engineering. His colleagues remember him as a dedicated professional who approached challenges with enthusiasm and creativity.
Sauer’s legacy of innovation and passion for electrical engineering will continue to inspire those privileged to work with him. His dedication to advancing technology and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the field. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and colleagues.
For those wanting to support the Sauer family, donations can be made at this GoFundMe link.
Written by Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, JILA Science Communicator
The Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC) program supports university-based centers and institutes where the collective efforts of a larger group of individuals can enable transformational advances in the most promising research areas. The program is designed to foster major breakthroughs at the intellectual frontiers of physics by providing needed resources such as combinations of talents, skills, disciplines, and/or specialized infrastructure, not usually available to individual investigators or small groups, in an environment in which the collective efforts of the larger group can be shown to be seminal to promoting significant progress in the science and the education of students. PFCs also include creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, broadening participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, and outreach to the scientific community and general public.