From over 900 applicants, the UConn Quantum Computing Club secured one of 200 host positions for the IBM Quantum-sponsored Qiskit Fall Fest 2026, demonstrating recognition of their quantum program. The three-day event, running October 15-17, combines hybrid workshops and panels with an in-person hackathon on Saturday at UConn Storrs. “Connecticut already has an exciting and growing quantum ecosystem,” says Shai Verma ’27 (ENG), vice president of the club. The event aims to connect this established network with students interested in quantum technology.
UConn Quantum Computing Club Selected as 2026 Qiskit Fall Fest Host
UConn’s Fall Fest 2026 will culminate in an in-person hackathon on October 17, requiring participants to travel to the Storrs campus for the final event after two days of hybrid workshops and panels. The hackathon format aims to provide attendees with direct engagement with quantum computing challenges and support practical skill development. Securing the position involved a competitive application process, highlighting the quality of UConn’s quantum computing initiative and its potential to contribute to the broader field.
Verma emphasizes the event’s role in bridging the gap between existing quantum research and emerging talent. Beyond technical skill-building, the event is designed to broaden access to quantum computing, welcoming individuals from diverse academic backgrounds and professional fields.
Organizers specifically encourage participation from those without prior quantum experience, recognizing that the industry requires a wide range of expertise beyond core physics and computer science. “While a background in programming, mathematics, or physics can be helpful for some of the technical challenges, we encourage students from all majors to attend,” explains Verma.
“There’s much more to the quantum industry than just building quantum computers, and we want people to see the different ways they can contribute to this emerging field.” The student-led nature of the event is a key component of its design, with the core team managing all aspects from speaker recruitment to logistical arrangements. Verma says, “The event is entirely student-led, with our core team managing everything from speaker outreach and industry partnerships to sponsorships, programming, and logistics.”
Verma notes that the Fall Fest aims to demystify quantum computing, making it more approachable for newcomers. “Quantum technology is an exciting and rapidly developing field, but it can sometimes feel intimidating or difficult to access, especially for anyone who is just starting out,” Verma says. The organizers hope to create a welcoming environment where attendees can explore the field without feeling overwhelmed. They measure success not only by the technical skills gained but also by sparking curiosity and encouraging further exploration.
“Whether someone wants to explore a potential career path, build something interesting, meet others who share their interests, or simply understand what all the excitement around quantum computing is about, I think they’ll find something valuable here. And even if someone walks in knowing nothing about quantum computing, we’d consider it a success if they walk out curious enough to keep exploring.”
Quantum computing sits at the intersection of computer science, physics, mathematics, engineering, and several other fields.
Shai Verma ’27 (ENG), vice president of UConn’s Quantum Computing Club
See today’s quantum computing news on Quantum Zeitgeist for the latest breakthroughs in qubits, hardware, algorithms, and industry deals.
