It’s common knowledge that the modern world is flooded with data. Classic computers struggle to process the intense data demands of today. Quantum computers, in contrast, can solve these problems in no time at all, which is why it is expected to be worth $8.6 billion by 2028.
Quantum computing is an evolving, state-of-the-art technology based on quantum theory and mechanics. The emerging technology can be used to solve problems that are too complex or take too long on classic computers, such as predicting biological molecules and biochemical interactions.
Classic computers process data at a binary level – imagine a light switch where “off” has a value of 0, “on” has a value of 1, and you only have one person wanting to turn the light on and off at any given time.
The light can handle that demand, and so can a classic computer. If you have 1000 people trying to flip that one switch at the same time, the light bulb will inevitably explode – and the classic computer will too (metaphorically speaking!). But to a quantum computer, that’s all in a minute’s work.
Quantum computing has the capacity to enhance a range of industries. But in order to unlock the full potential, there must be investment in education and development to address the skills gap the tech sector is facing. Beyond attracting the best people, there are educational challenges too.
In Achieving a Quantum Smart Workforce, 50 quantum experts from the US and Europe argued that one of the main issues we face in addressing the skills gap is the lack of alignment between quantum-focused higher education and actual industry requirements.
Hype or reality?
Quantum computing is often considered a highly advanced technology that is decades away from mass adoption. In reality, it is advancing fast.
Although quantum physics and its fundamentals have been around for more than a century, emerging technologies have completely changed the field. The use of quantum annealing, a method for finding optimal real-time solutions to problems with millions of alternative options, has been particularly significant.
We are beginning to see the full potential of quantum computing already. In manufacturing, businesses can use
this technology to produce goods in a faster, better, and safer manner.
For example, in the manufacturing industry, quantum computing can help identify materials with more advantageous strength-to-weight (SWR) ratios and test their appropriateness for different use cases.
Quantum computing is one of the most important developments not only in physics, but in all of science. Quantum computing will have applications available that aren’t possible today and will lead to an influx of opportunities. However, before we reach that point, we must invest in education and development with the aim of closing the skills gap.
Since Peter Shor’s 1994 theatrical demonstration, that found quantum computers can solve problems exponentially faster than classic ones, quantum computing has been one of the most anticipated tech advancements of the last century.
The most anticipated tech invention this century?
Cybersecurity is another key application for quantum computing. Industries and governments will benefit from quantum computing’s ability to rapidly analyse vast amounts of data and increase its defences against phishing scams and denial-of-service assaults. In fact, The Ministry of Defence (MoD) acquired the UK government’s first quantum computer in June.
Quantum computing is already having a dramatically positive impact on the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Small scale quantum computing can be used as a way to quickly calculate molecular structure. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, Tech Mahindra filed a patent for a drug molecule that could attack coronavirus.
Makers Lab, Tech Mahindra’s internal lab created to boost innovation, conducted the molecular docking analysis in-silico. In other words, Tech Mahindra was able to fast-track the analysis process and shortlist 10 drug molecules from a list of 8,000 FDA-approved drugs – all thanks to quantum computing.
Addressing the skill gap:
So, how can technology leaders address the skills gap to enable them to maximise the impact of quantum computing? By a two-pronged approach. First, IT teams must understand the opportunities and threats that the quantum age will bring. This will require leadership buy-in to demonstrate organisation-wide commitment. Second, leaders need to ensure that the right resources and educational opportunities are not only available but funded and supported by their organisation. There is no shortage of books, podcasts and courses on quantum – such as Qiskit and QuantuC, to name just a couple.
The quantum computing chance:
Quantum computers don’t require high-end CPU or GBU chips, so global challenges like the chip shortage will only make quantum computers more enticing for industries to invest in.
To meet market expectations, a workforce for quantum computing will need to be continuously cultivated. A lack of knowledge of quantum computing and a shortage of qualified researchers in this field will dramatically slow global deployments. At a time of global economic volatility, businesses need to future proof themselves and their operations – and having an appropriately skilled quantum workforce will be key.
IT teams, IT engineers and tech leaders must be at the forefront of understanding the complexities of quantum computers in order to reduce the skills gap. Quantum is here today and sharing their vital knowledge will help it grow exponentially.
Quantum computers can change the course of technological history – but only if the industry addresses the current skills gap conundrum.
