Representatives from FAQT, leaders and researchers from the University of Florida, and State of Florida officials met on July 15 to align these groups’ vision for the future of quantum technologies in Florida. The meeting was held at Malachowsky Hall on the University of Florida (UF) campus.

The FAQT team, led by Co-Leads Philip Feng and John Shea, discussed the strong expertise in quantum science and engineering that exists across the universities in Florida. The team laid out a vision for FAQT to leverage this joint expertise to make Florida a leader in quantum. Mark Tehranipoor, Sachio Semmoto Chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UF, and Elias Eldayrie, Chief Technology Officer of UF, and the visionary behind FAQT, emphasized that now is the time for the State of Florida to invest in quantum.

Florida Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly explained why the State of Florida is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in quantum technologies, especially given that Florida has been the #1 state in the nation in several important measures – university systems, talent development, high tech business growth, manufacturing, company HQ relations and entrepreneurship.  He also explained that Florida already possesses the physical infrastructure necessary for the future of quantum industry: a reliable, resilient power grid; strong broadband connectivity; and excellent water resources. Florida also has strong institutional infrastructure: the Florida high tech corridor; many centers of excellence in research at Florida universities; and a strong defense and space industry.

The conclusion of the meeting was that Florida is prepared to lead nationally in quantum and that the Florida Alliance for Quantum Technology should bring all of the Florida universities together to achieve this goal. The need for fast action was emphasized, with the goal of an August meeting of representatives from Florida universities, industry, and Florida government representatives to develop a unified plan.