What is Quantum?

Quantum is the science of how matter and energy behave at the smallest scales, including atoms, electrons, and particles of light called photons. At this scale, nature behaves differently than it does in the everyday world we experience.

Scientists and engineers are learning how to use these unique properties to create new technologies that can solve problems beyond the reach of many of today's conventional tools. This field is known as Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE). It combines ideas from physics, engineering, computer science, mathematics, chemistry, materials science, and other disciplines to better understand and apply quantum phenomena.

You do not need to be a physicist to learn about quantum. As the field grows, people from many educational and professional backgrounds are helping shape the future of quantum technologies.

  • Quantum information refers to information that is represented, stored, processed, transmitted, or measured using the principles of quantum science. Unlike classical information, quantum information can take advantage of uniquely quantum phenomena, enabling new approaches to computing, communication, networking, sensing, and other emerging technologies. The interdisciplinary field dedicated to understanding and applying quantum information is known as Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE).

    At QuSTEAM, we believe learning quantum information involves more than understanding the science. Our approach integrates four essential dimensions: foundational concepts, real-world applications, societal impacts, and career exploration. By combining technical knowledge with creativity, communication, collaboration, and professional development, we prepare learners to contribute to an innovative, interdisciplinary, and future-ready quantum workforce.

  • Throughout history, scientific discoveries have changed the way we live, work, communicate, and solve problems. Quantum technologies have the potential to become one of the next major technological advances.

    Researchers believe quantum technologies could help accelerate scientific discovery, strengthen cybersecurity, improve medical research, develop new materials, increase the precision of sensors, and address complex challenges in energy, transportation, manufacturing, and national security.

    Just as importantly, quantum is creating new opportunities for education, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and collaboration across industries.

  • Unlike many established fields, there is no single approach to teaching Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE). Because the field is evolving rapidly, educators across the country are developing and testing new ways to introduce quantum concepts to learners with different backgrounds and levels of experience.

    Today, quantum is taught in many settings, including high schools, community colleges, four-year colleges and universities, graduate programs, workforce training programs, and professional development programs for educators. Depending on the audience, instruction may emphasize scientific concepts, engineering applications, computing, mathematics, or real-world problem solving.

    Many educators are moving beyond traditional lecture-based instruction by incorporating active learning, hands-on activities, simulations, interdisciplinary projects, and industry-informed learning experiences. These approaches help learners build conceptual understanding, strengthen critical thinking skills, and connect quantum concepts to real-world applications and careers.

    Industry also plays an important role in quantum education by helping educators understand workforce needs, informing curriculum development, providing experiential learning opportunities, and exposing students to emerging technologies and career pathways. Collaboration among educators, employers, researchers, and government helps ensure that quantum education remains relevant as the field continues to evolve.

    Because many instructors are new to QISE, there is also a growing need for high-quality instructional resources, professional learning opportunities, and communities where educators can collaborate, exchange ideas, and share effective teaching practices.

    At QuSTEAM, we believe educators should not have to navigate this journey alone. We bring together educators, academic institutions, industry, government, and other partners to strengthen quantum education through collaboration, innovative teaching practices, curriculum development, and workforce partnerships. Together, we are helping prepare learners for the future quantum workforce.

  • Quantum technologies are expected to influence many sectors of society. Here are just a few examples.

    Healthcare

    Researchers are exploring how quantum computing and quantum sensing may help accelerate drug discovery, improve medical imaging, and better understand complex diseases.

    Cybersecurity

    Quantum communication and post-quantum cryptography are helping prepare for a future where sensitive information can remain secure, even as computing capabilities continue to advance.

    Energy

    Quantum technologies may improve battery development, optimize energy systems, and support the discovery of new materials for cleaner and more efficient energy solutions.

    Manufacturing

    Scientists are using quantum methods to better understand materials at the atomic level, which may lead to stronger, lighter, and more sustainable products.

    Transportation and Navigation

    Quantum sensors have the potential to improve navigation and positioning in environments where GPS signals are weak or unavailable.

    Agriculture and Environmental Science

    Quantum sensing technologies may improve environmental monitoring, water management, soil analysis, and precision agriculture.

    National Security

    Many countries are investing in quantum research because of its potential to strengthen communications, sensing, computing, and national competitiveness.

  • Quantum technologies will not be built by physicists alone.

    The future quantum workforce will include technicians, engineers, computer scientists, software developers, data scientists, educators, mathematicians, manufacturers, researchers, business professionals, project managers, entrepreneurs, and many others. Every role plays an important part in moving discoveries from the laboratory into products, services, and solutions that benefit society.

    Government agencies, industry leaders, and educators agree that developing a skilled quantum workforce is one of the nation's highest priorities. Meeting this need will require collaboration among schools, colleges, universities, employers, government, and community organizations to create clear pathways into quantum careers.

  • Item descQuSTEAM believes that preparing the next generation of the quantum workforce begins with education.

    Our mission is to revolutionize Quantum Information Science and Engineering education and outreach by building a skilled, capable, and effective quantum workforce through community building.

    We work with educators, academic institutions, employers, researchers, and community partners to strengthen quantum education through collaboration, innovative teaching practices, curriculum development, and workforce partnerships.

    Our vision is a future where quantum technologies drive innovation and societal advancement through a workforce that reflects the breadth of perspectives, experiences, and talents across our communities.

    Whether you are an educator developing new courses, a student exploring career opportunities, an employer seeking talent, or a partner interested in advancing quantum education, QuSTEAM is building the connections that help transform curiosity into opportunity.ription

  • National Quantum Initiative. (2022). National Quantum Initiative strategic workforce development plan. https://www.quantum.gov/publications-and-resources/publication-library/ 

    https://www.quantum.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/QIST-Natl-Workforce-Plan.pd

    National Science Foundation. (2020, December 23). Advancing Quantum Education and Workforce Development. https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/dcl-advancing-quantum-education-workforce-development

    National Science Foundation. (n.d.). Quantum Information Science. https://www.nsf.gov/focus-areas/quantum

    U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Quantum Workforce Development in DOE. https://science.osti.gov/wdts/outreach-and-resources/STEM-Resources/Quantum-Workforce-Development-in-DOE