Talking Points for Quantum Champions

Chris Ferrie
3 min readSep 15, 2024

So, you’re a quantum advocate, but you find it difficult to land anything that sticks, right? What we need is a coherent, unified narrative. If we can’t make this happen in 2025, the International Year of Quantum, we never will!

1. Quantum Mechanics: The Most Successful Science Ever Created

Quantum mechanics is the foundation of our understanding of the universe at the smallest scales and has consistently delivered accurate predictions and groundbreaking discoveries.

Example: our understanding of quantum states of light (including lasers and interferometry) provides sensitivity in measuring differences in distances equivalent to measuring a change in the position of the Moon by the width of a human hair!

2. Quantum is the Basis of All Modern Technology

From semiconductors and lasers to MRI machines and GPS, quantum principles have driven nearly every major technological advancement of the past century.

Example: every GPS satellite has multiple atomic clocks on board, which won’t lose a second of time before the sun dies. Without this accuracy, GPS would be off by 10km every day!

3. All Future Technology Will Be Driven by Quantum

Quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing are set to revolutionize industries, solving complex problems that classical technologies cannot address.

Example: quantum random number generators (QRNGs) produce unpredictable data bits crucial for security. Next-generation quantum technologies manipulate individual quantum systems and are commercially available today.

4. Education in Quantum is Rare and Fragmented

Despite its importance, quantum education is inconsistent, inaccessible, and often confined to niche academic circles, limiting widespread understanding and adoption.

Example: most national curricula worldwide do not contain the word “quantum” in any context!

5. Quantum is Seen as Mysterious and Complex — But It Doesn’t Have to Be

While quantum concepts can seem daunting, they can be made accessible and engaging with the right tools and narratives that demystify science.

Example: games like Quantum Chess, YouTube series like Up and Atom, and didactic books like Quantum Bullshi*t are unique, accessible, and crafty narratives.

6. We Need a Unified Story for Quantum

A coherent, global narrative that connects educators, industry, and the public is essential to fully realize the potential of quantum technology and foster broad engagement.

While the above examples are great, they are not unified. They use different words, symbols, and ideas for the same concepts! How confusing. Also, most initiatives have not been maintained or have gone defunct. Plenty are/were great, but they are one-off efforts without coordination.

Call to Action for Champions:

Highlight the impact of quantum technology on our past, present, and future, spreading the word about the importance of quantum science and the need for a unified narrative.

Still here? Sure, I’ll tell you what I’m doing to help

Quokka is the Answer. Quokka offers a comprehensive solution by providing accessible, engaging, and unified educational resources that make quantum science understandable and relevant for everyone.

Highlights of Quokka

Expert-Led: Developed and guided by leading voices in quantum education and communication, ensuring accurate and effective content.

Accessible Learning: Provides ready-to-use resources that simplify quantum concepts, making them approachable for educators, students, and the public.

For All Audiences: Tailored solutions for educators, industry leaders, and enthusiasts — whether you’re teaching, learning, or applying quantum technology.

Interactive and Engaging: Offers interactive experiences that bring quantum concepts to life, transforming complex ideas into tangible, relatable learning moments.

Scalable and Flexible: Adaptable to various educational needs — from full-term courses to corporate training and public outreach, Quokka meets diverse requirements.

Unified Narrative: Helps create a consistent and compelling story about quantum science, connecting the dots across education, industry, and public engagement.

Visit quokkacomputing.com to find out more!

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Chris Ferrie

Quantum theorist by day, father by night. Occasionally moonlighting as a author. csferrie.com