Package imports and initial setup for vectors and matrices

Before we can program in Spark or use vector and matrix artifacts, we need to first import the right packages and then set up SparkSession so we can gain access to the cluster handle.

In this short recipe, we highlight a comprehensive number of packages that can cover most of the linear algebra operations in Spark. The individual recipes that follow will include the exact subset required for the specific program.

How to do it...

1. Start a new project in IntelliJ or in an IDE of your choice. Make sure that the necessary JAR files are included.
2. Set up the package location where the program will reside:

package spark.ml.cookbook.chapter2

3.  Import the necessary packages...