Pathways to Quantum 2025: A Summer of Discovery for Future Quantum Leaders
This July, Connected DMV’s Potomac Quantum Innovation Center (PQIC), in partnership with George Mason University’s Quantum Science and Engineering Center (QSEC), welcomed an exceptional cohort of rising high school seniors from across the Greater Washington region for the 2025 Pathways to Quantum Summer Immersion Program.
Over three weeks, students explored the fundamentals of quantum science, earned digital credentials recognizing their achievements, and stepped inside some of the most advanced research, policy, and technology organizations in the country.
A Two-Part Journey into Quantum
The program began with a two-week virtual course, Quantum Discovery for Students (June 23 – July 9), providing a strong foundation in quantum concepts and an introduction to the organizations they would later visit. This asynchronous, eight-hour course, combined with live virtual discussions, prepared students for the in-person experience and earned them the PQIC Introductory Badge—a credential they can proudly share on resumes and LinkedIn.
From July 13 – 18, the cohort came together in Fairfax for the Quantum Explorer for Students week at George Mason University. Staying on campus, participants explored quantum’s many applications—spanning business, policy, national security, research, and more—while also building lasting peer connections.
A Week Inside the Quantum Ecosystem
The in-person segment offered a rare, behind-the-scenes look at quantum in action:
Monday, July 14 – Students began the week with a welcome from QSEC and PQIC leaders, followed by guest talks from Jacqueline Tame of Global Playground (virtual), Bogdan Neculaes of Boeing (in person), and Kaniah Konkoly-Thege of Quantinuum (virtual). Lab tours at George Mason University provided hands-on insight, and the evening concluded with a visit to the GMU Observatory for stargazing.
Tuesday, July 15 – The cohort traveled to the University of Maryland, touring the Atlantic Building, meeting researchers at IonQ, and exploring the National Quantum Laboratory (Q-Lab). The day wrapped with an afternoon at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, learning about cutting-edge space and quantum applications.
Wednesday, July 16 – A day devoted to cryptology and national security included an in-depth visit to the National Cryptologic Museum, a corporate briefing from the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Advancing Technology Tour, highlighting innovations in encryption and secure communications.
Thursday, July 17 – Students visited MITRE in McLean for morning sessions, then headed to the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) in Washington, D.C., for a fireside chat with Vivek Chilukuri and Constanza M. Vidal Bustamante, a briefing on recent research from CNAS’s Technology & National Security Program, and a career panel sharing advice from professionals in the field.
Friday, July 18 – The week wrapped up with presentation prep, a virtual alumni panel featuring Dianne Barahona, Katelyn Miller, and Edina Tedos, and student-led talks summarizing their experiences. Participants received their PQIC Pioneer Badge in a closing ceremony before heading home.
A Launchpad for the Future
Reflecting on the program’s impact, George Thomas, President & CEO of Connected DMV, said:
“Pathways to Quantum is about more than introducing students to quantum science—it’s about opening doors to careers, sparking curiosity, and connecting young people to the global innovation ecosystem right here in Greater Washington. These students are not just learning about the future—they’re preparing to lead it.”
While the summer immersion has ended, many students will continue their engagement by working on an optional summer project, culminating in a showcase at the Quantum World Congress (QWC) on September 16–18, 2025, at Capital One Hall in Tysons, VA.
Thanks to the support of our partners and host organizations, Pathways to Quantum 2025 proved to be more than a summer program—it was a launchpad for the next generation of innovators, policy thinkers, and leaders in quantum science.
To learn more about the Pathways program, please visit pqic.org.
