“How do you get a quantum literate workforce within the broader tech sector?” asks Julian David, CEO of UK technology trade association techUK for more than ten years. “How do you get people to understand and be empowered to utilise quantum technologies or applications?”

This echoes the sentiment of many a country tasked with navigating complex innovation and turning research ideas into business opportunities. While it’s still relatively early days for a quantum applications industry, David’s point is that we have to improve the country’s overall technology competency level to have any chance of grasping the opportunities that quantum will inevitably bring.

“The UK government needs to keep focusing on the skill gaps,” says David. “If you want a quantum strategy, it’s not just about putting money up and encouraging people to get the latest tech, it’s also about investing in all this stuff around it, particularly skills and talents.”