In a rapid response to the emerging field of quantum computing, Megan Ivory and former Sandia employee Jake Douglass launched QCaMP as a virtual camp in 2020. Now, Sandia National Laboratories’ Quantum Computing, Mathematics and Physics camp has expanded to a weeklong, in-person program reaching teachers in 15 states, and a separate four-week camp for students in New Mexico and California. “QCaMP is an opportunity for educators to be part of the growing quantum ecosystem by providing early exposure to concepts and careers in quantum science,” said Ivory, a Sandia physicist and QCaMP co-creator. This growth reflects a deliberate effort to cultivate the future quantum workforce, as Sandia recognizes the need for it.
QCaMP for Educators: Introducing Quantum Concepts to Teachers
Currently encompassing educators from 15 states, the weeklong, in-person QCaMP represents a significant increase in reach from its initial online format, signaling a nationwide interest in integrating quantum principles into secondary education. This growth isn’t simply about disseminating information; it’s about fostering a community of educators equipped to inspire the next generation of quantum scientists. This expansion demonstrates a commitment to informing educators and directly engaging students with the complexities of quantum physics.
Deb Menke, Sandia STEM education outreach program manager, observed a shift in the teachers who complete the program; “When I watch a teacher leave QCaMP, I don’t see someone who just completed a professional development course. I see someone who has fallen back in love with learning.” Sandia National Laboratories views this educational outreach as a crucial investment in the future. Menke emphasized the importance of proactive engagement, stating, “The quantum workforce is sitting in a classroom right now, and they may not even know it yet. Our job at Sandia is to make sure their teachers do.” The laboratory, alongside its partners, recently received recognition for its efforts to advance quantum innovation and economic development within New Mexico, with QCaMP serving as a key component of this broader initiative, providing educators with the tools and confidence to “open that door for their students.”
QCaMP is an opportunity for educators to be part of the rapidly growing quantum ecosystem right here in our backyard by providing early exposure to concepts and careers in the emerging field of quantum science.
Megan Ivory, a Sandia National Laboratories physicist and QCaMP co-creator
Expanding Quantum Education: QCaMP’s Growth and National Impact
The quantum education field is evolving, with initiatives like the Quantum Computing, Mathematics and Physics (QCaMP) program playing a vital role in preparing the future workforce. This growth reflects a strategic effort to broaden access to quantum concepts beyond traditional academic settings and cultivate interest at earlier stages of education. The program’s impact also extends to the teachers themselves. The program’s design prioritizes hands-on activities and resource provision, equipping teachers to confidently introduce complex quantum phenomena to their students.
QCaMP gives educators the tools, confidence, and excitement to open that door for their students.
