CSUSM Secures $2.1M to Expand Quantum Workforce Development

Imagine having five minutes to make a pitch in the style of the reality show “Shark Tank” on the future of California’s quantum workforce.

For Justin Perron, a physics professor at Cal State San Marcos, that pitch was the culmination of months of collaboration and preparation, resulting in a $2.1 million award from the California Jobs First Regional Investment Initiative.

This latest grant builds on previous investments from the National Science Foundation, Laboratory for Physical Sciences, Department of Energy and American Physical Society, and it positions CSUSM at the forefront of quantum education and workforce development.

For Adrian Schnepp, an applied physics major with a focus on quantum information science and technology, these investments translate into opportunities to use quantum technology, not just study the theories behind it.

“Being able to control the behavior and manipulate a single electron is incredible, especially as an undergraduate,” Schnepp said. “I’ve always been the type of person who has to touch the stove to see if it’s hot. I like figuring things out for myself, and that’s what I love about the hands-on research here.”

First-generation student Aiden Rodriguez came to CSUSM as a computer science major but found a new passion in quantum computing after reading about its potential impact on cybersecurity and encryption.

“I stopped by Dr. Perron's office to learn more about it even though I wasn't one of his students at the time," Rodriguez said. "He welcomed me in, answered my questions and became a mentor. That experience sparked my interest in quantum science and ultimately led me to add applied physics as a second major.”

Building California’s Quantum Workforce

As quantum technologies advance, the need for a skilled quantum workforce is becoming increasingly urgent. According to the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), California leads the nation in demand for quantum talent, with more quantum-related job openings than any other state.

To help address that need, CSUSM has offered quantum-focused bridge programs for incoming freshmen, professional development programs for faculty and quantum-centered undergraduate research opportunities.

A key part of this effort is reaching students before they go to college. Through the Center for Research and Engagement in STEM Education (CRESE), CSUSM brings hands-on STEM experiences to K-12 students at more than 20 schools and community sites throughout the region, with undergraduates serving as near-peer mentors.

“By interacting with college students, young learners can better envision themselves pursuing higher education and careers in STEM,” said Ed Price, a physics professor and the faculty director of CRESE. “This is especially important in quantum, which students typically don’t learn much about in high school.”

Access to specialized equipment remains a significant barrier to quantum education and training. With the new state funding, CSUSM will work with UCLA, UC Irvine and Pasadena City College to make the equipment and curriculum developed through its programs available to other training and education programs across the region. The hardware includes quantum optics systems, sensors that use quantum properties to make precise measurements, and NMR systems using magnetic fields to control the quantum behavior of atomic nuclei.

“CSUSM has invested in advanced quantum infrastructure and developed expertise that positions us as a valuable partner in Southern California's quantum ecosystem,” Perron said. “By sharing these resources with educational and industry partners, we can expand access to quantum education and training while further establishing the region's leadership in quantum innovation.”

These investments build on CSUSM's broader leadership in regional, state and federal quantum initiatives. As a founding member of the SoCal Quantum Alliance, CSUSM works alongside leading research institutions and industry partners – including UCLA, USC and Caltech – to advance quantum science and prepare the next generation of talent. At the state and federal levels, CSUSM is also a partner within the Challenge Institute for Quantum Computation (CIQC), one of the NSF’s recently renewed Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes.

“One of CSUSM’s greatest strengths is our focus on providing undergraduates with access to advanced research and technology,” said Charles De Leone, dean of graduate studies and research. “As quantum technology moves from the research lab into the economy, CSUSM is creating opportunities for students to engage with the tools, technologies and research shaping the future. This momentum strengthens our ability to prepare the next generation of talent while supporting California’s growing quantum workforce needs.”

For Perron, the five-minute pitch was the latest step in a much longer effort. With funding secured, the work continues: building out the curriculum, equipment-sharing partnerships and mentorship pipelines that will define California's quantum workforce for years to come.

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306