LA PLATA — The College of Southern Maryland hosted the Southern Maryland Regional Quantum Forum on May 20 to develop training pathways for emerging quantum careers.
CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson opened the event by noting that community colleges serve as workforce incubators. She said collaboration across education, industry and government is needed to build talent pipelines.
Maryland has positioned itself as a hub for quantum technology through investments in research and development. The University of Maryland, College Park hosts the largest concentration of quantum scientists in the United States. Capital of Quantum, a public-private partnership, drives research and workforce efforts in the state.
Keynote speaker Dr. Corey Stambaugh, director of Capital of Quantum, explained quantum concepts and outlined industries that could benefit, including cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, software, hardware and manufacturing. He noted that opportunities exist across skill levels and that community colleges have a role in filling technician positions.
Dr. Brian Rashap, quantum director at Central New Mexico Community College, described that institution’s quantum learning lab and technician program. The college offers certificate programs and a 400-hour bootcamp open to students without prior advanced math or science backgrounds. Rashap emphasized training students for immediate employment in supporting roles alongside Ph.D. level work.
Panelists discussed quantum applications in Maryland’s Lighthouse Sectors of biotechnology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, aerospace and defense. Dr. Matthew Cimino of the Maryland Department of Commerce highlighted potential uses in precision medicine and drug discovery. Kimberly Mentzell of the department noted that community colleges can help fill technician roles, with roughly three such positions for every Ph.D. level job.
Ellen Flowers-Fields, CSM vice president of Continuing Education and Workforce Development, said the college is creating pathways aligned with evolving industry needs. The forum served as an initial step toward a regional strategy for quantum workforce development. CSM plans to continue partnering with education, industry and government to expand training opportunities.
