All aboard the quantum train: How to be an engineer, not just a passenger

Quantum is getting a lot of attention from governments around the world, from tech companies large and small, and from the press. Quantum physicists have won recent Nobel prizes, 2025 is the International Year of Quantum, corporations have announced technological advances, and the US established export controls on quantum computer technologies. Depending on where you are in the quantum ecosystem—student, academic researcher, supplier, system developer, end user or government official—you can react or you can help to steer the course. This talk will provide insights on quantum use cases, funding, geopolitics, and careers, and how you can be actively engaged.