A critical skills shortage defines the rapidly expanding quantum industry, with research indicating a 3:1 ratio of available jobs to qualified candidates globally. To address this gap and boost awareness, the Sydney Quantum Academy (SQA) launched its Quantum Learning Hub following a National Science Week event that drew over 500 attendees.
The initiative aims to prepare a future workforce for an estimated 19,400 quantum jobs expected by 2045, representing a $6 billion sector. “The future of quantum is not decades away – it’s already taking shape today – and the workforce needed to support it is growing just as quickly,” said SQA Director, Professor Peter Turner.
SQA Launches Quantum Learning Hub to Address Talent Needs
This initiative followed a recent event, Quantum Future Talent: From Curiosity to Career, which drew over 500 students, teachers, and industry professionals seeking insight into the growing quantum sector. Despite the expanding job market, awareness of quantum technologies remains limited; the State of Australian Quantum Report 2024 revealed that only 27% of Australians have heard of the field.
To address this, SQA is distributing curriculum-aligned resources to schools, aiming to inspire curiosity and build a pipeline of local talent. Globally, the demand for qualified quantum professionals currently exceeds supply by a ratio of three to one, according to research from McKinsey and Company, highlighting the significant opportunity for individuals entering the field.
SQA’s efforts are not solely focused on physics students. Michaela Ripper, Exhibition Developer from Questacon, explained, “Quantum has a reputation for being complex and mysterious, but our goal is to show that you don’t need to be a physicist to explore the potential of quantum technologies – just like how you don’t need to be a computer engineer to use computers.” Questacon previewed its ‘Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures’ exhibition at the event, showcasing the diverse applications of quantum technology, from agriculture to sports.
“We already use quantum technologies every day – lasers, LEDs, GPS and the transistors in computer chips all rely on the quantum behaviors of their components to work,” Ripper added. Feedback from students at Quantum Future Talent indicated the event’s impact.
Alina, a Year 11 student at International Grammar School, shared that the event was enlightening regarding the future of quantum engineering and quantum science. She believes many students will develop new ideas about shaping the future and pursuing careers in science.
Aarcha, a Year 10 student from East Hills Girls Technology High School, expressed a similar sentiment, stating, “I came to the event today as I want to do something in science for my career. I’m doing physics and chemistry in Year 11, so I wanted to learn more about quantum.” SQA intends for the Quantum Learning Hub and events like QFT to ensure participants leave with a clearer understanding of quantum’s potential and their place within the emerging industry.
Quantum has a reputation for being complex and mysterious, but our goal is to show that you don’t need to be a physicist to explore the potential of quantum technologies – just like how you don’t need to be a computer engineer to use computers.
Michaela Ripper, Exhibition Developer from Questacon, a guest speaker at the QFT event
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