By Holt Hackney
Florida Atlantic University quantum technology leader Robert Loredo argued recently that organizations should begin preparing for quantum technologies before they can point to a clear commercial breakthrough.
In his new book, “Quantum Readiness for Leaders,” Loredo urges executives to examine where quantum technologies could serve a business purpose, develop expertise and partnerships, and address the security implications of future quantum computers. Published by Packt in late August, the book covers quantum computing as well as sensing, networking and cryptography.
“I kept hearing the same question: ‘What is quantum and where should I be investing?’” Loredo said in an announcement from FAU. His answer is that readiness requires more than access to hardware: Organizations need a strategy, people with relevant skills and a way to evaluate potential uses.
Loredo became executive director of FAU’s Center for Quantum Technologies in July. The university plans to install a D-Wave Advantage2 quantum annealing system on its Boca Raton campus as part of a broader effort to connect research, education and industry partnerships. The system was planned, rather than already installed, when FAU announced Loredo’s appointment.
For technology leaders, the most immediate part of quantum readiness may be cybersecurity. The National Institute of Standards and Technology has released post-quantum cryptography standards and advises organizations to identify systems that use vulnerable algorithms and plan their transition. That work can begin without waiting for a quantum computer capable of breaking today’s widely used encryption.
The business case for quantum computing applications is less settled. Loredo’s book encourages organizations to identify promising problems, build teams and test ideas as the technology matures. That approach leaves room to distinguish a useful experiment from a claim of near-term commercial advantage.
FAU Vice President for Research Gregg Fields said the book’s emphasis on research and workforce development aligns with the university’s quantum initiative. For enterprise leaders, its central question is practical: Which preparations make sense now, and which investments should wait for stronger evidence that quantum technology can solve a specific problem?