Diverse perspectives on navigating a career in the emerging quantum industry

A majority of physics degree-holders do not work in academic research – indeed, less than half of physics bachelors’ holders will go on to graduate study at all. As the nascent quantum information science and technology (QIST) moves from conceptual challenges to implementation and deployment challenges, the need for advanced degree-holding (specifically PhD-level) quantum specialists will decrease in favor of competent STEM workers from a variety of backgrounds and with a variety of levels of education. This panel will convene professionals currently working in or with the quantum industry for a discussion on their diverse pathways to QIST and ways for students to support their own development as future quantum workers. Panelists from a variety of companies, startups, and national labs and with various levels of educational certification and job roles will discuss their professional responsibilities, the skills and education they use on the job, their pathways to quantum (especially as non-specialists), and the courses / trainings / experiences they have made use of on their professional journey to a novel field.

Key themes include: finding pathways to the career you want; skill development career advice for quantum-interested students, and professionals looking to pivot into a career in quantum tech.