The Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative and BuildWithin are launching the nation’s first quantum pre-apprenticeship program, offering a $2,500 stipend to each of the 10 participants completing the 12-week curriculum. Running from June 29 through September 18, 2026, the program focuses on cultivating talent within existing companies, preparing professionals to lead quantum adoption as the technology moves toward commercial use. “Innovation often starts with people already inside organizations who are curious about what’s next,” said Charlie Brock, CEO of the Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative, explaining the program’s unique approach to workforce development.
Chattanooga’s $2,500 Quantum Pre-Apprenticeship for Working Professionals
The inaugural cohort of a pre-apprenticeship program will each receive a $2,500 stipend for completing a 12-week curriculum focused on applied quantum technologies, a financial incentive designed to attract working professionals to the emerging field. This program, launched by the Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative and BuildWithin, differs from traditional quantum education by targeting individuals already employed in technical roles, such as IT specialists and analysts, rather than solely focusing on advanced degree candidates, the company says.
Participants will engage with curriculum delivered primarily online, combining asynchronous coursework with live support and mentorship to translate quantum concepts into practical applications within their current organizations. The program’s structure deliberately mirrors the U.S. Department of Labor’s established apprenticeship framework, a move intended to facilitate broader adoption across other states and regions without requiring the creation of entirely new workforce development systems.
Philip Minardi, Co-Founder of BuildWithin, explained, “We built this program with CQC so Chattanooga’s mid-career professionals can become their company’s quantum expert through a structured, proven pre-apprenticeship pathway.” This emphasis on a replicable model highlights a strategic effort to rapidly scale quantum workforce development nationally, addressing concerns that skills gaps could impede the technology’s broader implementation, mirroring delays experienced with cloud and artificial intelligence adoption.
The curriculum will move participants from foundational quantum concepts to hands-on experience with tools and content sourced from leading organizations including, as well as resources and the U.S.. Each participant will also be paired with a mentor to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and the specific challenges within their workplace, culminating in a capstone project proposing a quantum use case for their employer.
The program’s launch arrives at a critical juncture for the U.S. quantum landscape, as increased investment and the emergence of commercial systems drive demand for a skilled workforce capable of capturing the economic benefits of the technology. Chattanooga itself has positioned itself as an early hub for quantum activity, boasting a commercially available quantum network, an on-site quantum computer, and collaborations, creating a supportive ecosystem for this new workforce initiative.
Tim Kelly, Mayor of Chattanooga, highlighted the program’s alignment with the city’s broader economic development goals, stating, “A pre-apprenticeship that’s accessible to working Chattanoogans across a variety of technical fields is another step in preparing our workforce for what’s coming.” The focus on individuals within organizations who champion innovation represents a deliberate shift in workforce development strategy, prioritizing the activation of existing talent rather than solely training new quantum specialists.
This approach acknowledges that successful quantum adoption will require not only technical expertise but also the ability to identify and implement quantum solutions within established business processes. The program’s design reflects a belief that empowering these internal champions is important for accelerating the integration of quantum technologies across various sectors.
EPB, Chattanooga’s electric power board is also supporting the initiative, recognizing the potential of quantum technology to drive future economic growth. Janet Rehberg, EPB President and CEO-elect, emphasized the company’s commitment to community service, stating, “Helping local professionals prepare for future economic opportunity as Chattanooga positions itself as a hub for the emerging quantum technology industry is part of EPB’s mission to serve our community.” The program’s curriculum is designed to be accessible to professionals with diverse technical backgrounds, removing the prerequisite of advanced degrees in physics or mathematics and emphasizing practical application.
Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga highlighted the university’s role in translating research into tangible opportunities for students, industry partners and the community. “Through the UT Chattanooga Quantum Center, we are advancing quantum research and have the national and international partnerships that align our students with the career opportunities of the quantum future.” Programs like this pre-apprenticeship expand access, strengthen our workforce and position Chattanooga to shape what comes next. The program’s structure, built on the Department of Labor’s apprenticeship framework, is intended to be a national model, enabling other regions to replicate the initiative without creating entirely new workforce development programs.
Applications for the initial cohort are currently being accepted through the One Chattanooga Works platform, with participant selection scheduled for June. The program is actively seeking Quantum Learning Guides and mentors to support the participants.
The pre-apprenticeship aims to not only equip individuals with quantum skills but also to support economic mobility within the Chattanooga region, ensuring that local residents benefit from the growth of the emerging quantum technology industry. “Quantum will provide next generation technology, and through programs like this, continued access to economic mobility for Chattanoogans,” a representative stated.
Helping local professionals prepare for future economic opportunity as Chattanooga positions itself as a hub for the emerging quantum technology industry is part of EPB’s mission to serve our community.
Janet Rehberg, EPB President and CEO-elect
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