Insider Brief

Illinois Science and Technology Coalition and partner organizations released a report showing Illinois awarded more than 33,000 quantum-relevant degrees and certificates in 2024.

The report positions Illinois as a leading U.S. hub for quantum workforce development and proposes one of the first frameworks for defining quantum-relevant academic programs.

Researchers highlighted the importance of technical training, community colleges, and non-PhD career pathways for building a broader quantum workforce.

PRESS RELEASE — Today, the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition (ISTC), Illinois Economic Development Corporation (Illinois EDC), Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) and Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE) released a first-of-its-kind report tracking Illinois’ growing quantum talent pipeline and reinforcing the state’s position as a national leader in quantum workforce development.