Role of Workforce Data in Quantum Information Science and Engineering Education Development

As the demand for a quantum-ready workforce grows, educators in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) face the challenge of aligning their programs with rapidly evolving industry needs. Through a series of interviews with program directors and faculty, we explore motivations, experiences, and information they need from the quantum industry to refine their QISE efforts. Thematic analysis reveals key opportunities and challenges in designing and revising ways we integrate QISE into new and existing programs to align student preparation with the quantum workforce. These insights shape our ongoing data collection with industry stakeholders, where we interview managers and recent graduates to identify knowledge, skills, abilities and educational backgrounds required for various roles in quantum technology companies. This talk presents our most up to date results investigating the QISE workforce landscape and educators' needs around supporting students interested in QISE careers. We aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue between academia and industry to make quantum career paths more accessible and aligned with workforce demands.