In February 2025, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and quantum hardware provider IQM introduced quantum computing into the Winter Classic Invitational Student Cluster Competition for the first time in its five-year history. This virtual event provided college students with hands-on access to high-performance computing (HPC) applications and, through ORNL’s partnership with IQM, quantum computing resources. The competition, which included mentors from organizations such as Amazon, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and the Pittsburgh Computing Center, allowed participants to tackle real-world computational challenges using both classical HPC systems and quantum technologies. This initiative marked a significant step in preparing students for emerging quantum computing opportunities.
The 2025 Winter Classic Invitational Student Cluster Competition marked a significant milestone by integrating quantum computing into its curriculum for the first time. Collaborating with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and industry partner IQM, the competition provided students with hands-on experience in quantum algorithm development. Participants were tasked with benchmarking a quantum algorithm designed to solve linear systems of equations, a critical component in high-performance computing applications such as computational fluid dynamics.
The competition utilized ORNL’s Odo system for initial simulations, allowing students to explore quantum algorithms under idealized conditions. This phase was followed by access to IQM’s quantum computers, where participants could test their solutions under real-world constraints. The event not only highlighted the potential of quantum computing but also underscored the growing interest among students in this emerging field.
This hands-on approach allowed students to understand the challenges and opportunities associated with quantum computing. The competition also served as a platform to explore potential applications of quantum technologies in fields such as optimization, materials science, and cryptography.
The competition highlighted the importance of hybrid computing models that combine classical and quantum systems. By leveraging ORNL’s Odo system for initial simulations and IQM’s quantum computers for real-world testing, participants gained insights into the synergies between these two paradigms. This approach not only enhanced the learning experience but also demonstrated the practicality of integrating quantum technologies into existing HPC workflows.
The event underscored the growing interest in quantum computing among students, reflecting a broader trend in academia and industry. As quantum technologies continue to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of quantum experts.
ORNL’s Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP) has been instrumental in expanding access to quantum computing resources for researchers and students. The program provides opportunities to explore applications in optimization, materials science, and cryptography, among other fields. By collaborating with industry partners like IQM, ORNL is advancing quantum technologies and addressing scientific challenges.
The 2025 Winter Classic competition was a direct extension of QCUP’s mission, offering students hands-on experience with quantum algorithms. The event not only showcased the potential of quantum computing but also aligned with ORNL’s broader goals of fostering innovation and preparing the workforce for the quantum era.
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