Experience the Exponential Future of Quantum

Experience the Exponential Future of Quantum

As part of your registration, attendees of AFIT’s 2026 CEO Forum & Reps Meeting (CFRM) are invited to take part in an Innovation Field Trip to the forefront of quantum innovation—choosing from one of three immersive tracks:

Track 1: Quantum Computing

Quantum computing uses the physics of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally new ways—allowing certain problems to be solved far faster than today’s most powerful computers. It's poised to reshape industries like healthcare, logistics, energy, finance, and manufacturing. Institutions across the higher ed ecosystem will be on the front lines of preparing technicians, analysts, and transfer students for quantum-enabled jobs—and for supporting regional employers as they adopt these technologies.

» Tour stops include:

• A virtual visit to Quantinuum, the world leader in quantum computing 
• Central New Mexico Community College's Quantum Learning Lab (QuLL), cultivating the next generation of quantum technicians

Schedule of events:

Track 2: Quantum Networking

Quantum networking focuses on securely transmitting information using quantum principles. It enables ultra-secure communications and is foundational to the future “quantum internet.” It's critical to cybersecurity, national defense, and critical infrastructure. Institutions can play a key role in workforce pipelines for secure communications, networking, and IT—fields already facing talent shortages and attracting major public and private investment.

» Tour stops include:

• Qunnect, building hardware to transform telecommunications infrastructure into scalable quantum networks
• Central New Mexico Community College's Quantum Learning Lab (QuLL), cultivating the next generation of quantum technicians

Schedule of events:

Track 3: Quantum Research

Quantum research is the scientific and applied R&D behind quantum technologies—exploring new materials, devices, sensors, and methods that make quantum computing and networking possible. Across the quantum research ecosystem, labs and innovation hubs have an increasing need for skilled technicians, lab support, and applied research partnerships. Engagement in quantum research ecosystems strengthens regional relevance, attracts funding, and positions colleges as essential partners in advanced innovation economies.

» Tour stops include:

• Central New Mexico Community College's Quantum Learning Lab (QuLL), cultivating the next generation of quantum technicians
• Sandia National Labs’ Center for Integrated Nanotechnology (CINT), a U.S. Department of Energy user facility where researchers advance next-generation materials and nanoscale technologies that underpin quantum innovation. (Security clearance required.)

Schedule of events: