Quantum Computing’s Growth Demands A Skilled Workforce Now

As quantum computing shifts from research labs into commercial data centers, a critical workforce shortage is looming, not for physicists, but for quantum technicians and engineers. Kristina Callaghan, Quantum Education & Workforce Development Program Manager at Quantum Machines, asks, “How do we best prepare the upcoming quantum workforce?

What jobs will be in demand and what skills will be required?” Callaghan’s research indicates a significant gap in skilled roles requiring hands-on expertise, prompting active curriculum development at institutions like Central New Mexico Community College’s Quantum Learning Lab and the University of Oregon to address this need.

Industry-Academia Partnerships Bridge Quantum Skills Gap

A projected shortfall of qualified quantum technicians and engineers, roles not requiring a doctoral degree, is driving collaboration between industry and academic institutions. This effort acknowledges that sustaining quantum computing’s expansion requires a workforce extending beyond physicists with advanced degrees. Students with no prior coding experience successfully ran calibrations using Quantum Machines’ QUAlibrate software on actual qubits at the IQCC, demonstrating that quantum control and calibration are accessible without a Ph, the company says.