Chicago State University is preparing students for immediate roles in the expanding quantum industry. Its first quantum certificate recipient currently works in research at Pfizer. This pipeline to employment is bolstered by a $250,000 investment PsiQuantum made in July toward local STEM programs and CSU’s student programming.

The university is also collaborating with IBM to create internship opportunities linked to the company’s 750 new positions over five years at its FutureNow Chicago delivery center, which will include quantum roles. “Our students are being prepared to engage and contribute to the growing Illinois’ quantum economy,” said CSU President Zaldwaynaka “Z” Scott, J.D.

CSU and IBM Pathways Support Illinois Quantum Workforce

CSU’s first graduate of its quantum certificate program is currently employed in a research capacity at Pfizer, demonstrating an immediate application of the curriculum beyond traditional technology companies and highlighting the program’s versatility. IBM’s commitment to establishing a FutureNow Chicago delivery center will create 750 new full-time positions over five years, encompassing roles in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and quantum computing.

CSU is actively developing paid internship opportunities linked to this center, though the precise number of student positions remains under finalization. Corporate and philanthropic investment is bolstering the development of a quantum-focused economy on Chicago’s south side, contributing $250,000 in July to support local schools and STEM programs.

This investment specifically benefits CQuEST, CSU’s Quantum Education, Science and Technology Center and its student/teacher programming, expanding access to quantum education, IBM says. CSU’s Center for Economic Mobility and Advancement received a $150,000 grant through McDonald’s Chicago Community Impact Grants Program, further supporting workforce development initiatives for neighborhood youth. “The success of the IQMP – and quantum technology at large – depends on the people who are passionate about building and sustaining this growing industry,” said Harley Johnson, CEO of the IQMP.

“CSU is providing students with the training, experience and confidence to contribute from the very beginning. When industry leaders and local educators collaborate, employers quickly find qualified talent close to home, strengthening Illinois’ long-term quantum future.”