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Trajectories into careers in the quantum industry: Beyond knowledge and skills

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Career preparation for participation in the quantum industry is often framed in terms of formal educational pipelines, workforce projections, and knowledge and skills needed for various roles. Less is known about how quantum industry professionals themselves characterize their preparation for participation in the field. In this paper, we analyze interviews with quantum industry professionals working across a range of positions and company types to examine the experiences that enable entry into the quantum industry. Using thematic analysis, we identify four trajectories: (1) continuity of research practice from academia to industry, (2) reframing of prior expertise for quantum applications, (3) incremental engagement through various professional opportunities, and (4) network-enabled entry. These trajectories often co-occur within individual narratives, showing that preparation emerges from a combination of educational, professional, and relational experiences. Our findings demonstrate that supporting preparation for quantum industry careers requires more than the design of formal coursework and degree programs. Our results highlight the importance of experiential learning opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge and skills and develop professional connections that facilitate entry into quantum careers.

Source: Physical Review Physics Education Research

DOI: 10.1103/vh35-y52v

Authors: Shams El-Adawy, A. R. Piña, Benjamin M. Zwickl, H. J. Lewandowski

Institution: Rochester Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Higher Education and Employability

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,000