CQC Quantum Connect - Q2 2025

Building momentum, forging partnerships, and learning together

Quantum momentum is building—and the Chattanooga area is playing an outsized role! This quarter, EPB announced a groundbreaking partnership with IonQ to bring a quantum computer to Chattanooga and launch EPB Quantum CenterSM, establishing the nation’s first combined quantum networking and computing hub. It’s a milestone moment, and it underscores the region’s growing role in shaping the future of quantum technology.

In this issue, find a Q&A with EPB's President of Strategic Initiatives, insights on how quantum could impact healthcare, and updates on World Quantum Day and the International Year of Quantum, along with new learning tools now available at ChattanoogaQuantum.com.

As always, thanks for being part of the conversation!

‍A Year of Quantum:

World Quantum Day, International Year of Quantum 2025, and Learning Opportunities for Everyone

Quantum science is having a moment—not just in Chattanooga, but around the world. April 14 marked World Quantum Day, a global celebration designed to raise awareness about quantum technology and its growing impact on science, industry, and everyday life. The date—4.14—was chosen as a nod to Planck’s constant (4.14 x 10⁻¹⁵ eV·s), a fundamental number in quantum mechanics

But 2025 is bigger than just one day. The United Nations has declared this year the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, recognizing 100 years since the breakthroughs that shaped modern quantum mechanics. Throughout 2025, events around the world—including here in Chattanooga—will highlight quantum’s role in shaping the future of computing, security, healthcare, and beyond.

If you’re curious about quantum and want to learn more, resources are now available for learners of all levels at ChattanoogaQuantum.com. Developed in partnership with EPB, the Public Education Foundation, UTC, Chattanooga State, and Tech Goes Home, these learning modules include downloadable exercises, videos, and other tools designed to make quantum concepts accessible to students, educators, and lifelong learners.

Taking Quantum Conversations on the Road (and to the Taproom!)

Since our last update, the Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative has been busy bringing quantum discussions to new audiences—from the national stage at SXSW in Austin to engaging events right here in Chattanooga.

SXSW | Quantum at the Tennessee House
In March, CQC CEO Charlie Brock joined panelists from EPB and IonQ at SXSW as part of the Tennessee House, an activation by LaunchTN. The panel wasn’t just about deep tech—it also included a rousing round of Quantum Fact or Fiction, where the audience tested their knowledge (and maybe picked up a few surprising insights along the way!). The discussion emphasized how both quantum computing and quantum networking are critical to the future of technology and economic development.

UTC Quantum Conversations
Back in Chattanooga, Charlie and officials from EPB and UTC challenged attendees to another round of Quantum Fact or Fiction during UTC’s Quantum Conversations event in March. Beyond the friendly competition, the panel explored the latest developments inside UTC’s Quantum Center and how the local quantum ecosystem continues to expand.

Science on Tap | Bringing Quantum to the Community
February also marked the launch of Science on Tap, a new taproom-based discussion series designed to take UTC’s research beyond the lab. Dr. Rick Mukherjee led the discussion with quantum front and center, giving the community a chance to hear about emerging technologies in a relaxed, engaging setting—over a pint! If you’re in the Chattanooga area, look for more Science on Tap events coming monthly.

Coming up, Charlie will speak on a panel at Quantum Immersion Day hosted by IonQ at UT Research Park in Knoxville. The event brings together researchers, industry leaders, and ecosystem builders to explore quantum’s real-world potential. Learn more or register here.

Later in June, UTC is hosting another standout event. At the UTC Quantum Technology Workshop, June 23–25, experts from Harvard, University of Illinois, Los Alamos National Lab, UTC and others will explore the future of quantum technology. CQC will be there moderating a panel on quantum applications for industry, featuring insights from EPB, Oak Ridge, TVA, and Volkswagen. Register here to be part of the conversation.

Q&A with EPB’s President of Strategic Initiatives, Janet Rehberg

It’s been just under a year since Janet Rehberg stepped into her role as President of Strategic Initiatives at EPB, a position that puts her at the forefront of some of the most exciting developments in our region’s quantum story. We sat down with Janet—10 months into the job—to hear her perspective on EPB’s expanding quantum efforts, what it means for the region, and how her engineering background informs her approach to strategic leadership.

CQC: EPB launched the country’s first industry-led, commercially available quantum network. Now, you’re adding a quantum computer and creating EPB Quantum Center. What’s your vision for this growing infrastructure?

Janet: Over the last two years, we’ve seen real traction—our network has drawn interest from universities, startups, and national labs. Now, with the addition of IonQ’s enterprise-grade Forte quantum computer, we will launch the new EPB Quantum Center, the first U.S. quantum technology center to provide commercial access to both quantum computing and quantum networking resources. We’re accelerating our role as a national hub with the goal of positioning our community for new investments, jobs and more.

CQC: What does this mean for Chattanooga’s role in the broader innovation landscape?

Janet: Already, EPB Quantum Network has attracted national and global attention. When EPB Quantum Center launches in early 2026, Chattanooga will be the first place in the U.S. where developers can access these kinds of resources. This is an economic opportunity for our community to attract new companies to base operations here and empower local industries to begin developing quantum use cases specific to their needs.

CQC: What have been the biggest challenges in commercializing quantum technology?

Janet: We began working in quantum technology after participating in an R&D 100 award-winning collaboration with Oak Ridge and Los Alamos National Labs about quantum technologies to secure the grid---but the technology that proved successful wasn’t available in practical operations. Companies like ours that can benefit from these developments can’t access it. Other companies know they can benefit, but they don’t know how to begin. At EPB Quantum Center, we want to host the innovators developing these solutions so they can prove their applications’ commercially viable and move them to market.

CQC: With the addition of a quantum computer, what kinds of applications do you hope to explore over the next decade?

Janet: Our goals are clear: expand the network, integrate computing capabilities, and explore quantum-powered applications for grid security and business innovation. We’re especially excited about power grid optimization—using quantum computing to improve load balancing, outage prediction, and energy resource planning. There’s also huge potential in logistics, manufacturing, and cybersecurity. These are complex problems where quantum can provide real-world solutions.

“We’re excited about using quantum computing to improve load balancing, outage prediction, and energy resource planning. There’s also huge potential in logistics, manufacturing, and cybersecurity.”

CQC: What have you appreciated the most since joining EPB?

Janet: EPB’s reputation for innovation is authentic. I’ve also been welcomed by the warmth of this community and am proud to be part of EPB’s commitment to its mission to enhance quality of life for our community.

CQC: Why is now the right time for Chattanooga to lead in quantum?

Janet: The global market for quantum is projected to reach nearly $200 billion by 2040, according to McKinsey & Company. We have the infrastructure, the partners, and now the technology. Our first-mover advantage gives us a real shot at building a lasting quantum economy right here.

Quantum Technology and the Future of Healthcare

Quantum technology may sound futuristic, but its potential to improve healthcare is quickly becoming more tangible. With advances in quantum computing, sensing, and communications, hospitals and clinics could soon benefit from faster diagnoses, more personalized care, and stronger data protection

For the Chattanooga area’s medical community, this isn’t just theoretical. EPB Quantum Network, open now to developers, and a new partnership with IonQ to open EPB Quantum Center in early 2026 means these innovations can be developed right here—opening the door for regional healthcare providers to lead in adoption and application.

1. Faster Diagnoses with Quantum Sensing

Serious conditions like heart disease or neurological disorders require early detection. Quantum sensors offer ultra-precise measurements that could transform disease monitoring and diagnostics.

• Sharper Imaging – Quantum-enhanced MRI and CT scans may soon detect tumors, strokes, or internal injuries with unprecedented clarity.
• Early Disease Detection – Sensors could pick up subtle changes in breath, blood, or brain activity, helping identify diseases like Alzheimer’s or cancer earlier.
• Improved ICU Monitoring – Real-time, high-precision tracking of vital signs could lead to faster, more responsive care for critical patients.
  

2. Smarter Hospital Operations with Quantum Computing

Hospitals juggle countless variables—from staff scheduling to emergency room bottlenecks. Quantum computing’s ability to solve complex problems could dramatically improve efficiency.

• ER & Surgery Optimization – Quantum models could help predict patient flow, allocate staff more effectively, and streamline operating room usage.
• Personalized Treatment Planning – By analyzing vast datasets, quantum systems could support physicians in crafting more tailored, data-driven treatment plans.
  

3. Strengthening Security with Quantum Communications

With healthcare increasingly digital, the stakes for cybersecurity are rising. Quantum encryption offers a next-generation solution to protect patient information.

• Data Privacy – Electronic health records, insurance data, and prescription histories could be safeguarded against future cyber threats.
• Telehealth Security – As virtual care expands, quantum-secure networks could keep doctor-patient interactions private.
• Device Protection – Quantum communications could help secure smart medical devices like insulin pumps and pacemakers from tampering.
  

While some of quantum’s most advanced applications—like large-scale medical research and predictive modeling—may still be years away, the first visible impacts could come much sooner: better imaging, smarter scheduling, and safer data. For healthcare providers, quantum technology offers real opportunities to improve care where it matters most—at the patient’s bedside.