Aaron Fluitt, who helped secure $115 million in funding for Argonne National Laboratory’s Q-NEXT quantum research center, has joined the Chicago Quantum Exchange as its new CEO. He takes the helm of the 70+-member consortium as it focuses on building a quantum ecosystem spanning discovery through commercial deployment. “Aaron is a mobilizer, deep thinker, and recognized leader who has built relationships in nearly every corner of the quantum ecosystem,” said David Awschalom, founding director of the CQE. Fluitt’s experience includes launching Q-NEXT in 2020, one of five DOE National Quantum Information Science Research Centers.
Argonne Leader Drives Q-NEXT Quantum Center Launch
The center subsequently united 23 institutions and over 80 principal investigators, including David Awschalom, who served as Q-NEXT’s inaugural director. Fluitt’s experience extends beyond center launches to include the 2022 establishment of Argonne’s Materials Manufacturing Innovation Center, a new hub designed to support industry collaborations.
The Chicago Quantum Exchange, a consortium currently comprised of over 70 members and partners, will now benefit from Fluitt’s expertise as he assumes the role of CEO. Fluitt’s career trajectory, which includes a PhD in molecular engineering from the University of Chicago and strategy roles with PsiQuantum and the Boston Consulting Group, reflects a consistent focus on bridging disciplines and encouraging collaboration.
He articulated this approach, saying, “Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to problems at the interfaces where disciplines, institutions, and sectors meet, and where new teams and capabilities are needed to make progress.” He believes that effective problem-solving requires a shared vision and robust relationships, adding, “Solving these problems together requires a shared vision and strong relationships. It’s rewarding to bring people together to accomplish things beyond what they could have done separately.” Elizabeth Goldschmidt, associate professor of physics and director of the Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, echoed this sentiment, noting Fluitt’s ability to unite stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to address challenges in quantum science and technology. Fluitt was recently named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ “40 Under 40” list for 2026, recognizing his early career impact.
He anticipates using the CQE’s existing strengths to catalyze new research programs, expand educational opportunities and accelerate the transition of quantum technologies into commercial applications, all within the Midwest region. His national laboratory, consulting and industry background, combined with his experience in quantum information technology, are expected to be invaluable assets to the CQE as it pursues these goals.
Aaron is a mobilizer, deep thinker, and recognized leader who has built relationships in nearly every corner of the quantum ecosystem. It is difficult to imagine someone more ideally suited to the mission of the CQE, particularly now, as we work to scale a manufacturing supply chain, lead unified quantum talent development, and, ultimately, pave the way for commercially useful quantum innovations.
David Awschalom, the University of Chicago’s Liew Family Professor of Quantum Engineering and Physics, the founding director of the CQE, and a senior scientist at Argonne
Fluitt’s Background Unites Quantum Industry and Academia
This focus on bridging sectors positions him to advance the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE) beyond its established foundation built over the past eight years under Kate Timmerman’s leadership. Fluitt also expressed enthusiasm for building upon the existing strengths of the organization, stating, “Under Kate’s leadership, the CQE team built an extraordinary foundation over the past eight years.”
Aaron has an exceptional ability to bring people together across academia, industry, and national labs to tackle the grand challenges we face in quantum science and technology today.
CQE Steering Committee
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