Teachers dive into the quantum future at EduQuantum

When teachers and career advisors gathered at EduQuantum, they came not just to learn, but to experience the rapidly emerging world of quantum technology and its implications for future careers.

More than 35 schools were represented, with educators travelling from across Greater Sydney, the Hunter region, and Port Stephens. Preservice teachers from four Sydney universities also joined, bringing the next generation of educators into the conversation.

Insights from leading experts

For many attendees, the day offered a rare window into a field growing at remarkable speed.

Dr John Bartholomew, University of Sydney, spoke about the promise and challenge of building quantum computers capable of solving problems beyond the reach of today’s machines.

Professor Chris Vale from CSIRO outlined Australia’s expanding quantum industry and the need for a shift toward a broader workforce and highlighted the importance of helping every student see a place for themselves in this emerging field.

Dr Marika Kieferova, Google and University of Technology Sydney, added perspectives on real-world timelines noting that while quantum technology holds enormous potential, much of the supporting supply chain in Australia is still developing. Drawing on her own non-linear path into the field, she spoke candidly about setbacks, self-doubt, and the value of persistence, showing that the road into quantum is rarely straight—but full of opportunities for students with diverse skills and interests.

Quantum demos

Teachers didn’t just listen—they got hands-on. Participants explored quantum research labs, tried interactive demonstrations, and engaged directly with professionals working in both technical and non-technical roles. One highlight was a collaborative session designing a quantum career pyramid, a tool that will soon be shared with teachers and career advisors to guide classroom conversations about the wide range of pathways into the quantum sector.

As one career advisors reflected, “Seeing the variety of roles really opened my eyes. There’s a place for every student in this field.”Teachers participated in hands-on demonstrations and toured quantum research labs.

Building Australia’s quantum workforce

According to a CSIRO report, the Australian quantum sector is expected to support roughly 8,700 jobs by 2030, growing to 19,000 by 2045, across quantum computing, sensing, and secure communications. By 2045, the industry could be worth nearly AU $6 billion. These roles span multiple sectors, including health, defence, finance, and national infrastructure — emphasising that quantum-ready skills will be in demand across the economy.

A national survey of the emerging quantum sector (commissioned by Sydney Quantum Academy) found widespread concern among industry players about a looming skills shortage. Many companies are already struggling to recruit people with quantum-ready skills, even as demand accelerates.

As the quantum industry grows, so too do workforce requirements for non-technical roles and skills. Beyond engineers, physicists, and software developers, companies increasingly need people to drive marketing, communications, business strategy, operations, product management, regulatory compliance, and project coordination.

These positions are essential to translate breakthroughs in quantum technology into real-world impact, helping organisations bring products to market, secure funding, manage collaborations, and build sustainable teams.

In short, the quantum sector offers opportunities not only for those with deep technical expertise but also for non-technical professionals— roles vital to the ecosystem as a whole.

Building awareness through EduQuantum

By connecting educators with the people actively shaping quantum careers, EduQuantum is helping build the awareness and confidence needed to guide students from every background toward this growing sector.

In post-event surveys, almost all attendees (97%) said they now feel confident introducing quantum ideas in their subject area, and 94% said they would recommend the program to a colleague.

A consistent theme echoed throughout the day: quantum technology will reshape the workforce, and schools play a pivotal role in preparing young people for what lies ahead.

The event was delivered by the Sydney Quantum Academy, Quantum Australia, and the STEM Enrichment Academy at the University of Sydney, with generous support from CSIRO.

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