The Department of Commerce’s mission is to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity for all communities.
What is so special about your blueprint that will allow the U.S. to be a quantum leader over the decades?
To provide context, the U.S. has a long history of leadership in innovation, from Bell Labs to Silicon Valley, driven by critical government investments in infrastructure and ecosystems. This historical approach laid the foundation for today’s Investing in America agenda, which is essential for our national and economic security. What is different now is how we are focusing these investments on equity and inclusivity. We’re committed to unlocking the potential of all Americans, particularly those who have been excluded from opportunities. This is about creating pathways for people to turn their ideas into innovations, just as Garrett Morgan and other historical figures did, allowing that the entire country benefits from this progress.
Tell us what Elevate Quantum Tech Hub means to you and the future of quantum computing, especially for Colorado?
We are not just advancing quantum computing; we are strengthening the broader ecosystem. Colorado and New Mexico are home to small and mid-sized businesses, research institutions like the Colorado School of Mines, and key partnerships like NIST’s work with the University of Colorado. This region already has the talent and resources, and our investments are accelerating its growth. Through combining resources, we are prioritizing collaboration that helps companies access expensive equipment and focus on innovation. Importantly, this consortium is also developing a strong talent pipeline—from skilled trades to advanced degrees—meaning that we are not only advancing quantum but preparing the workforce for other industries like AI and semiconductors.
How do you plan to navigate the 'valley of death' in commercializing these technologies?
The U.S. has been a leader in technology development, but we lost ground in semiconductor manufacturing by not maintaining production capabilities. Now, with the Chips Act, we are working to regain that ground and prevent dependency on adversaries for critical technologies.
Navigating the "valley of death" requires a comprehensive approach that includes both public and private capital investment. We are also collaborating with international partners like Finland and Sweden, ensuring intellectual property protection and adherence to the rule of law.
For someone unfamiliar with quantum computing, could you provide a relatable use case they might experience in 5-10 years?
Quantum computing is like moving from navigating a maze step by step to analyzing all possible solutions at once. This leap in processing power will revolutionize many fields, but one potential application is in personalized healthcare. Imagine visiting a doctor, having your health data analyzed in real time, and receiving a custom 3D-printed medication tailored to your specific needs—all in the same visit. This ability to process vast amounts of data quickly will enable breakthroughs in areas like disease detection, brainwave measurement, and pharmaceutical development, transforming industries far beyond just computing.
What keeps you up at night when thinking about the future of quantum?
One of my main concerns is the potential for cryptographically relevant quantum computing to break current encryption standards. If this happens, it could give malicious actors access to sensitive personal and national security information. This is why NIST is developing post-quantum computing standards to protect against these risks. We are also building a healthy quantum ecosystem through initiatives like the Quantum Economic Development Consortium. These efforts are vital for staying ahead of threats while continuing to drive the development of quantum technologies.
