Quantum Learning Lab Launches to Train New Mexico's Quantum Future

Elevate Quantum, Central New Mexico Community College, Sandia National Laboratories, and the University of New Mexico Partner to Launch Quantum Learning Lab and Quantum Technician Bootcamp

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Oct. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Elevate Quantum, in partnership with Central New Mexico Community College (CNM), Sandia National Laboratories, and the University of New Mexico, today announced the launch of its Quantum Learning Lab (QuLL), a new training and education hub at CNM's FUSE Makerspace in Albuquerque, designed to prepare New Mexicans for careers in the fast-growing quantum technology industry. QuLL's inaugural program, the Quantum Technician Bootcamp, kicked off September 29 and is providing students with hands-on training in the skills needed to support quantum computing, sensing, and communication, creating a first-of-its-kind workforce pipeline for the state and the nation.

The Quantum Learning Lab was established with federal funding secured by New Mexico's Congressional Delegation and is part of a broader strategy to position New Mexico as a national leader in quantum information science and engineering (QISE). QuLL provides dedicated lab space for optics, electronics, cryogenics, and cleanroom practices, allowing students to gain practical, hands-on experience with quantum systems, guided by scientists and engineers from Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories.

"Quantum technologies are moving from the research lab into real-world applications, and building a workforce that can support that transition is essential," said Jessi Olsen, COO/CFO, Elevate Quantum. "The Quantum Learning Lab and Bootcamp demonstrate New Mexico's leadership in both innovation and workforce development, ensuring we are training not only scientists and engineers, but also the skilled technicians who are critical to the success of this industry."

Participants in the bootcamp will receive hands-on learning and access to real quantum hardware, which is crucial for preparing students to meet the demands of the growing quantum workforce. The Quantum Technician Bootcamp embodies this approach, combining classroom instruction with guided lab work, enabling students to directly manipulate and experiment with quantum devices.

"Traditionally, many of the skills needed for technician-level work in the quantum industry are taught during graduate school. However, these skills – which include things like vacuum systems, electronics, optics/photonics, machining, CAD – most often do not require advanced degrees or any degrees at all," said Dr. Megan Ivory, Quantum Scientist, Sandia National Laboratories. "Through QuLL, folks who like working with their hands can get the training they need to immediately enter the quantum workforce. Our goals are to provide community members with good paying jobs and to provide the growing quantum industry in New Mexico with the workers they need to be successful."

Members of New Mexico's Congressional Delegation, notably Sen. Ben Ray Luján and Sen. Martin Heinrich, played a key role in securing the federal funding that made QuLL and the Quantum Technician Bootcamp possible. Their support reflects the state's bipartisan commitment to building the infrastructure needed to lead in quantum science and technology.

"As a proud member of Elevate Quantum, CNM is very excited to have launched a first-of-its-kind Quantum Technician Bootcamp that is going to connect learners with life-changing career opportunities after just 10 weeks of immersive training," said Tracy Hartzler, President, Central New Mexico Community College. "At the same time, we'll be providing a skilled quantum workforce that will support our community, state, and Mountain West region in becoming a global hub of quantum innovation and economic development. As Elevate Quantum's workforce development lead for quantum technicians, we also look forward to sharing and refining the bootcamp curriculum with fellow community colleges in Colorado and Wyoming to help establish our region as a quantum workforce development leader."

With additional guidance from CNM Quantum Educators Brian Rashap, PhD, and Shawn Moralles, the Quantum Technician Bootcamp was developed specifically to meet industry demand, as quantum information technology companies continue to expand in New Mexico and beyond. Starting pay for entry-level technicians is expected to range from $65,000 to $85,000 per year. The first cohort consists of nine learners and will expand to 12 learners starting with the Spring 2026 cohort. Scholarships are available to cover up to 100% of tuition for most learners.

"The new quantum learning lab at CNM is integral to our EQ workforce development strategy and we are thrilled to welcome its first student cohort," said Lucy Sanders, Workforce Implementation Lead, Elevate Quantum. "In the foreseeable future we look forward to replicating the facility and curriculum in Colorado at Emily Griffith Technical College."

Applications and more information for the Quantum Technician Bootcamp are available through CNM Ingenuity.

About Elevate Quantum
Elevate Quantum is the first and only major place-based investment by the U.S. Government in the quantum sector. Backed by more than 140 organizations—including Microsoft, AWS, Google, Sandia National Labs, Quantinuum, Atom Computing, Infleqtion, and others—Elevate Quantum is working to accelerate commercialization and cement U.S. leadership in quantum technology. To learn more, visit www.elevatequantum.org.

SOURCE Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)