TEL-AVIV, Israel–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New research from Classiq, which provides a breakthrough Quantum Algorithm Design platform, highlights the dramatic need for a trained quantum workforce, without which accelerated adoption of quantum computing is not possible. It also indicates that informed employees have a robust thirst for quantum training – as nearly all professionals familiar with quantum computing said that they want more quantum education.

The research is based on a survey of more than 500 U.S. professionals – ranging from C-level executives to managers – who said that they are very or somewhat familiar with quantum computing. Propeller Insights conducted the Classiq-commissioned survey in July and August.

“Quantum computing will provide competitive advantage for forward-thinking businesses. But there are challenges – including a quantum skills shortage and the need for better development platforms,” said Nir Minerbi, co-founder and CEO of Classiq. “Yet there’s strong demand for quantum training from professionals who are familiar with this game-changing technology, leading universities are establishing curriculums to create a quantum workforce, and new platforms make quantum more accessible to a wider variety of people across organizations.”

Lack of Quantum Talent, Software Development Platforms Have Limited Quantum to Date

Organizations are exploring and significantly investing in quantum computing, a disruptive technology that will help deliver new revenue streams, reduce costs and create competitive advantage. But with more talent and the right tools, quantum can enjoy greater momentum.

When asked what was missing from potential quantum deployments, the top answer was the shortage of a trained workforce. Software and hardware availability were tied for second.

Half the survey group said that the lack of quantum experts has prevented quantum computing from becoming more popular. The same share blamed that on the lack of understanding about quantum computing technology. Half also noted the lack of developer software environments.

Highly Educated Professionals Who Are Familiar With Quantum Want to Learn More

Even though survey participants cited a familiarity with quantum computing, nearly all (94.9%) expressed interest in taking part in quantum computing training. And an even greater number (95.7%) said that they want universities and high schools to offer more quantum training.

There is plenty of good news related to this revelation. Some of the investments that companies have dedicated to quantum are going to corporate-sponsored educational activities, and top universities such as Harvard, MIT and UCLA already offer quantum curriculum tracks.

“Quantum computing has enormous, transformational potential,” said Julie Lenzer, chief innovation officer at the University of Maryland. “The winners of this new space race that is quantum computing will be the ones who develop the right talent and acquire the right technology to effectively launch applications and enable their businesses to reach new heights. The Classiq survey underscores the need for talent with quantum proficiency, as well as the thirst of those already in the industry to receive additional training. This is why the University of Maryland started the Quantum Startup Foundry.”

To Benefit from Quantum, Organizations Need Various Skill Sets, Accessible Platforms

The Classiq survey group consisted of people who have both expressed interest in quantum training and already have a high level of academic achievement. Nearly half (47.7%) have Ph.D.s, Master’s, law or medical degrees. More than a third (36.9%) hold bachelor’s degrees.

But it is important to note that while Ph.D.s are often involved in quantum computing efforts, such initiatives can benefit from people who possess an array of experience and expertise – especially if those individuals have the right tools. Ivan Ostojic, a partner with McKinsey & Company, noted the need for “business translators” with deep understanding of the business, the type of problems it is trying to solve with quantum computing, and what quantum systems are in development and their maturity. More entry-level quantum engineers are also needed.

“Even if you are not a Ph.D. in quantum information sciences, you can get a lot done on the Classiq platform,” said Minerbi. “Our platform makes quantum more accessible to more people. That helps organizations to conquer the quantum skills shortage so that they can then address problems with quantum computing that they never could have solved before.”

To review the survey report, click here.

About Classiq

Quantum is disrupting computing. Classiq’s Quantum Algorithm Design platform is revolutionizing quantum software development. Forward-thinking companies use our platform to solve real-world problems with quantum circuits that could not be created otherwise. Our patented breakthrough technology automatically transforms high-level functional models into optimized quantum circuits for a wide range of back-end systems, turning months into minutes of work and making it possible to harness the true power of today’s and tomorrow’s computers. To learn more, follow Classiq on LinkedIn, Twitter or YouTube or visit www.classiq.io.