EPB recently launched a new Quantum Computing Fellowship to provide valuable training and real-world experience, equipping participants to develop quantum solutions that benefit EPB customers and our community. The program is designed to build a local quantum-ready workforce and support new, local job creation from the rapidly emerging quantum industry. Eight fellows participate in the program, which provides hands-on experience and quantum-ready skills.
Image Credit: EPB
“This critical investment in workforce development will prepare a highly skilled workforce to lead the quantum future and keep Chattanooga’s innovation ecosystem on the cutting edge,” said EPB President and CEO-elect Janet Rehberg.
Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) has long supported EPB’s pursuit of quantum technology advancements, beginning in 2015 with an R&D 100 Award-winning project to use quantum networking to secure the energy grid.
“We appreciate the support of Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), who has championed East Tennessee’s role in advancing quantum technology to shape the future of national security, energy and economic competitiveness,” Rehberg continued. “This grant will support EPB Quantum’s work to develop a next-generation workforce and attract talent to our region.”
Quantum Computing Manager Paul Smith leads the Fellows program. Previously, Smith held leadership roles in technology and innovation at EPB, managing enterprise-scale systems and guiding teams through complex modernization efforts. With varied experience spanning software development, infrastructure optimization, and the adoption of emerging technologies, Smith applies his unique perspective to bridge traditional computing with quantum advancements.
The fellowship was established thanks to a $4 million National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) grant awarded in 2024 to accelerate the research, development, and workforce development of quantum technologies. The fellowship curriculum was developed in partnership with leading quantum platform company IonQ, which will also develop and execute a quantum executive education program and identify potential applications and quantum solutions for use cases that EPB and our community members can leverage. Last year, EPB announced the addition of an IonQ Forte Enterprise Quantum Computer to EPB Quantum CenterSM in downtown Chattanooga.