Stony Brook University recently hosted the International Year of Quantum 2025 Educational Leadership Conference, aiming to address the growing need for a workforce knowledgeable in quantum science. The event, held on March 12 at the Stony Brook Hilton Garden Inn, was sponsored by the National Science Foundation and led by faculty from Stony Brook’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and Institute for STEM Education.
The conference gathered over 150 K-12 school district administrators, teachers, and university partners to discuss quantum information science and technology (QIST) education. Angela Kelly, professor of physics and STEM education, emphasized the importance of inspiring students early to prepare them for future roles in the quantum workforce. "Our main theme today is that forming students’ career aspirations will lead to workforce development," she stated.
Kelly noted that while current quantum computers are noisy with inaccurate results, developing interest among pre-college students is crucial for harnessing future potential. She highlighted the demand for a quantum-skilled workforce with over 2,000 job openings in the region.
Stony Brook University Executive Vice President and Provost Carl Lejuez reiterated the university's commitment to quantum education as part of its strategic plan ‘Our Moment’. "This is not just another thing we do," he said. "This is one of the signature things we do."
Keynote speaker Shadi Sandvik from SUNY described technologies reliant on quantum mechanics such as LEDs and MRI machines. She stressed SUNY's role in scaling quantum education with nearly 90,000 students enrolled in related programs. “To meet the demand for quantum talent, we must think at scale,” Sandvik remarked.
The conference featured various speakers discussing aspects of QIST. Chang Kee Jung highlighted Stony Brook’s leadership in this field while Tzu-Chieh Wei explained how educators can engage students with programming existing quantum computers. Dominik Schneble provided insights into physical concepts underlying quantum computing operations.
Eden Figueroa shared his team's work on building a quantum network on Long Island using existing fiber optic infrastructure. He urged educators to inspire students to join this movement: “We need a workforce. We need students.”
Vincent Pereira from Freeport School District praised Stony Brook’s support in creating a high school elective course on quantum science. A student from Freeport expressed enthusiasm about learning quantum mechanics: “Quantum physics gives me the toolkit to engage with my future studies and career.”
The conference aimed to equip K-12 educators with resources to integrate quantum topics into their curriculum while highlighting ongoing initiatives like summer camps and professional development programs.
“We are at a pivotal moment,” concluded Lejuez. “It’s up to us to ensure that the next generation has the skills, knowledge, and opportunities to lead in this transformative field.”