Industry Perspectives on Projected Quantum Workforce Needs

TL;DR

This paper explores industry perspectives on future quantum workforce needs, highlighting the demand for diverse educational backgrounds and interdisciplinary skills to support various roles in quantum information science.

Contribution

It provides qualitative insights from industry managers on projected workforce requirements, emphasizing the importance of broad educational levels and application skills in quantum science.

Findings

Demand for Bachelors to PhDs in physics, engineering, and computer science.

Need for interdisciplinary skills across fields.

Emphasis on applications of quantum science in workforce development.

Abstract

As more physics educators are developing courses and programs to prepare students for careers in quantum information science, understanding the quantum industry's future workforce needs has become increasingly important. As part of ongoing efforts to understand the knowledge and skills needed for various job roles, we interviewed quantum industry professionals in managerial positions about workforce needs. Through thematic analysis, we identify two broad themes about projected needs. First, managers anticipate a need for a range of educational levels from bachelors to PhDs in physics, engineering, and computer science to fill the needs of roles spanning manufacturing to innovation. Second, managers anticipate an increased need for individuals who can apply quantum information science knowledge across fields. These results provide insights for physics educators about course and program development: continued investment in quantum information science education at all levels is valuable, and greater emphasis should be placed on applications of quantum science.