Quantum Skills Gap: Report Highlights Experiential Learning and Mentorship Needs

The Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C) has published a report identifying critical gaps in quantum workforce development and proposing solutions to address the growing demand for skilled personnel. The report, ‘Connecting the Dots: Quantum Learning Through Experiential Activities and Practice’, details a current global shortage of approximately 7,000 quantum jobs, with projections indicating up to 190,000 roles in the Midwestern United States by 2035. It highlights deficiencies in current educational systems, a lack of mentorship opportunities, and unclear career pathways as key challenges, advocating for increased experiential learning – such as apprenticeships – and coordinated investment to bridge the divide between academic training and industry requirements. The consortium recommends tracking workforce development initiatives, piloting scalable learning models, and aligning public and private funding to strengthen the quantum talent pipeline.

The quantum industry currently demands over 7,000 skilled workers globally, with projections indicating a substantial increase in required personnel. Estimates suggest between 175,000 and 190,000 quantum-related jobs will emerge in the Midwestern United States alone by 2035, necessitating proactive strategies to cultivate a workforce capable of meeting evolving industry needs. Regular monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) such as the number of individuals completing training programmes, the rate of employment in quantum-related roles, and the contribution of trained personnel to innovation and economic growth will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of workforce development strategies and inform future investments. Successful implementation of these recommendations requires a collaborative ecosystem involving government, industry, and academia.

A critical impediment to workforce development lies within conventional educational systems, which often fail to provide the practical training demanded by quantum roles. This shortfall extends beyond technical expertise, encompassing the need for individuals capable of integrating technical understanding with business acumen – a requirement for positions spanning engineering, technical roles, and translational functions. To address these challenges, emphasis is being placed on experiential learning models, such as apprenticeships, designed to complement, and in some cases substitute, traditional rote education.

The report highlights deficiencies in current educational approaches, advocating for a shift towards practical application and demonstrable skills acquisition. Beyond simply identifying existing programmes, the report advocates for the development of modular, skills-based training programmes focused on specific quantum technologies and applications. These programmes should allow individuals to upskill or reskill rapidly, addressing the immediate needs of the industry and providing a pathway for career advancement.

Establishing a comprehensive repository of existing quantum workforce development initiatives will facilitate knowledge sharing and prevent duplication of effort, streamlining the process of identifying and supporting effective training programmes. Early and sustained engagement with quantum technologies, coupled with robust mentorship programmes, are also considered vital components of a successful quantum workforce development strategy. A critical component of effective experiential learning is the establishment of robust evaluation metrics that assess not only technical proficiency but also the development of transferable skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication.

Accessibility is paramount, and these programmes should be offered in flexible formats, including online and hybrid options, to accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules. To foster a sustainable quantum talent pipeline, emphasis should be placed on attracting a diverse range of individuals to the field, and targeted outreach programmes, designed to engage underrepresented groups in STEM, are essential. Mentorship programmes should prioritise providing guidance and support to individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate the challenges of pursuing a quantum career and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.

This centralised resource will also enable better tracking of workforce development outcomes and inform future investment decisions. Coordinated funding mechanisms, streamlined regulatory processes, and open communication channels are essential to ensure resources are directed effectively and initiatives are aligned with national priorities. Data collected through these evaluations should be used to refine training programmes and ensure they remain aligned with evolving industry demands, creating a continuous feedback loop for improvement.

A long-term commitment to quantum workforce development is crucial to maintain a competitive advantage in this rapidly evolving field, and sustained investment in training and education will be essential to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers. This commitment to diversity and inclusion will not only broaden the talent pool but also foster innovation and creativity within the quantum sector. This collaborative approach will foster innovation, accelerate the development of quantum technologies, and drive economic growth.