In a strategic move to ensure a steady influx of skilled professionals, quantum computing companies are increasingly funding university training programs aimed at developing new talent. This initiative is crucial as the industry recognizes the pressing need for a workforce capable of navigating the intricacies of quantum technology.

As the quantum computing landscape unfolds, companies are keen to learn from the missteps of the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, where a sharp rise in demand for skilled workers has led to a talent shortage. The rapid expansion of AI-related roles has not been matched by a corresponding increase in qualified candidates. This disparity has created challenges for AI firms attempting to hire employees with the necessary educational backgrounds and technical expertise to train large language models, develop AI algorithms, and create innovative AI applications.

Erik Garcell, the director of quantum enterprise development at Classiq Technologies, highlighted that quantum computing firms have taken notice of these hiring difficulties within the AI sector. In an effort to avert similar issues, they are proactively investing in education. At Classiq, we are launching an extensive academic program that collaborates with universities to implement quantum curricula. Not every institution currently offers such programs, and for those that do, we advocate for a greater emphasis on practical experience, Garcell stated in an interview with Business Insider.

Research conducted by the international consulting firm Randstad in November revealed a stark contrast between the demand for AI skills and the availability of trained professionals. While 75% of organizations have begun adopting AI technologies and hiring for AI roles, only 35% of potential candidates have received relevant training within the past year. Furthermore, demographics present another layer of complexity; for example, only one in five baby boomers have been afforded opportunities for AI skill development, whereas nearly half of Gen Z workers have gained access to such educational resources, highlighting a significant generational gap. Additionally, there exists a 42 percentage point disparity in gender representation in AI skill development, favoring men.

This talent gap is particularly concerning given the exponential growth in demand for AI skills. A recent report from PwCs 2024 Job Barometer indicates that the number of jobs requiring specialized AI skills has surged by 700% since 2016, a rate three times greater than that of other job categories. Moreover, possessing AI skills can command a substantial wage premium of approximately 25%.

In contrast, the talent pool within the quantum computing sector is significantly smaller, yet the demand for skilled workers is on the rise. The trade publication The Quantum Insider has projected that quantum computing will create an estimated 250,000 new jobs by 2030, escalating to 840,000 by 2035.

As the quantum computing industry gears up for its transformative potential, major tech players including IBM, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Google are heavily investing resources in this field. Quantum computing is an interdisciplinary domain that merges elements of computer science, mathematics, and quantum mechanics, making it both highly technical and costly to advance.

Despite being in its nascent stages, Garcell asserts that industry leaders are convinced of the remarkable advantages that quantum technology can offer, including breakthroughs in medicine, materials science, and cybersecurity. They understand that early investments in education are vital to preventing a talent crunch from stalling progress. IBM has been instrumental in producing high-quality educational content for quantum computing, nurturing the industry from its early days, Garcell noted. Its gratifying to see companies like Pennylane also providing excellent free educational resources.

IBM's collaboration with quantum startups such as Q-CTRL has led to the development of a robust quantum learning program, which includes free online courses covering fundamental topics such as the creation of quantum algorithms and error-correcting codes. Additionally, companies like Google and Microsoft offer independent courses with certifications to help identify individuals with the in-demand quantum skills that hiring managers are seeking.

Renowned academic institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Chicago, and the University of California, Berkeley, are also stepping up by providing some of the most comprehensive quantum computing courses available. Garcell recently taught a three-day introductory course at MIT, introducing students to the fascinating world of quantum technology. The university has partnered with Classiq to offer an official online certification course.

This is an excellent time for individuals looking to engage with quantum computing, as many educational resources are now available, Garcell remarked. In the industry, there has been ongoing discussion about when we will see our own 'ChatGPT moment'the point at which broader audiences realize 'Oh, this technology exists!' Many will begin to take notice, and we want to be prepared for that moment.