February 27, 2024 -- D-Wave Quantum Inc. (“D-Wave”), a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services and the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, today announced it is addressing the escalating demand for skilled quantum programmers with the launch of a new, six-module quantum training course called “Foundations for Quantum Programming.” This self-paced, online course equips learners with essential mathematics and Python skills, laying a solid foundation for success with D-Wave’s flagship course, “Quantum Programming Core.”

“Foundations for Quantum Programming” encompasses video presentations, quizzes, and hands-on programming activities, requiring about 10 hours of learners’ time. Upon completion, learners will have gained crucial skills such as: identifying optimization problem objectives and variables, representing problem objectives as mathematical expressions, converting constraints to penalty functions, and writing basic Python programs for quantum programming.

The new course stems from the success and feedback of over 500 students who completed “Quantum Programming Core,” a mid-level course designed for individuals with intermediate Python programming skills who want to accelerate their quantum application development. Students can take a self-assessment to determine which course is most appropriate for them to start their quantum training journey—although “Foundations for Quantum Programming” is recommended as a prerequisite for “Quantum Programming Core.”

According to a 2022 survey conducted by Hyperion Research, early adopters of quantum computing identified the “lack of in-house quantum computing expertise and domain knowledge” as a major hurdle in adopting quantum computing in their businesses. Increased access to abundant academic and enterprise learning opportunities can help close the skills gap and enable a quantum-ready workforce.

“Quantum computing isn’t just for specialists. We’re equipping employees across roles to take advantage of this technology now,” said Victoria Goliber, global head of technical advising at D-Wave. “From students to experienced professionals, our expanding learning programs are key to building a quantum-ready workforce to accelerate the adoption of quantum technologies.”