Celia Mertzbacher, Executive Director of the QED-C, is interviewed by Yuval.
Key points are:
- Role and Objectives of QED-C: Celia describes the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C) as a bridge between the private sector and the government. It aims to accelerate progress in the quantum field by connecting various stakeholders.
- Measuring Success: Success for QED-C is gauged by the number of participants, filling gaps in the ecosystem, and influencing government policies. They focus on immediate, community-identified problems.
- Membership and Activities: QED-C is open to non-US members and offers a range of activities, from workshops to standing committees on various quantum-related topics.
- Global Quantum Landscape: Celia discusses the global nature of quantum innovation and the need for cross-border collaboration. She mentions that the U.S. is making strong investments in quantum technologies.
- Workforce Development: QED-C aims to broaden the understanding of career opportunities in the quantum field, emphasizing that it's not limited to those with a Ph.D. in physics.
- Challenges for Small Businesses: Celia highlights the difficulties for small businesses in the emerging quantum industry, suggesting that government funding could help bridge the gap between investment and revenue.
- Quantum Business 101: This is a virtual program aimed at startups and small companies, providing basic business information tailored to the needs of quantum companies.
- Engagement with End Users: Celia encourages member companies to engage more with end users to understand current technology levels and to pull the technology toward real-world applications.
