Connecticut\u2019s industrial history is characterized by leadership in technology innovation in areas such as aerospace and aviation and national security. Quantum technologies are poised to influence hundreds of applications, such as smartphones, navigation systems, advanced computers, and hundreds of other products and services, impacting many of Connecticut\u2019s key national security, manufacturing, financial, and bio sciences industries.<\/p>\n
\u201cQuantum has a chance to really thrive in Connecticut. We have extensive industrial and commercial infrastructure already in place, along with a vibrant educational corridor of universities, experts, and students ready to translate promising research into applicable technologies,\u201d says UConn President Radenka Maric. \u201cI am delighted that the NSF has selected QuantumCT as a finalist and look forward to the next steps for UConn, Yale, and our state as a whole.\u201d<\/p>\n
With its versatility and potential to change lives for the better, quantum technology research and development has generated dozens of partners for the initiative. The economic rewards, including workforce development, would be substantial for Connecticut. The economic concept has drawn collaborators that include the Governor\u2019s office, the cities of Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Waterbury, the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU), the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges, and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association.<\/p>\n
\u201cQuantum technologies are set to revolutionize Connecticut’s workforce by creating a demand for new, specialized skills and fostering lucrative careers across diverse industries including aerospace, biotech, and finance,\u201d says co-principal investigator Christine Broadbridge, the Executive Director for Research and Innovation at Southern Connecticut State University.<\/p>\n
The QuantumCT program is unique in its broad scope, facilitating multiple entry points into careers in quantum-related industries beyond those available to college-educated STEM majors. It exists to facilitate multiple entry points to careers in quantum-related industries.<\/p>\n
\u201cQuantumCT is implementing a multi-faceted approach to prepare Connecticut’s workforce for the quantum era, connecting schools, communities, and universities, making quantum science and technology accessible to everyone\u2014fueling innovation and opportunity for all,\u201d says Broadbridge.<\/p>\n
Innovation and venture partners, including Connecticut Innovations, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, AdvanceCT, Yale Ventures, and\u00a0UConn\u2019s Technology Innovation Program, are working together to ensure that emerging quantum technologies are quickly transferred to real-world applications.<\/p>\n
\u201cConnecticut is quantum-ready,\u201d say Dr. Albert M. Green, president and CEO of QuantumCT, an innovation-driven nonprofit organization fueled by UConn, Yale, and the State of Connecticut, which supports expanding research and engaging industry in quantum technology applications. \u201cWe are anchored by dense industry clusters in life sciences, insurance, aerospace, and defense where quantum will have near-term impact. These strengths are reinforced by a dynamic workforce and consistently high STEM graduation rates, which demonstrate a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.\u201d<\/p>\n
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