The Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana region is poised for substantial growth in quantum technology, with projections indicating the creation of as many as 191,000 jobs by 2035. This significant expansion, detailed in a 2024 analysis by Boston Consulting Group for the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE), assumes sustained government investment and highlights the Midwest's potential to become a leading hub for quantum innovation. Crucially, this anticipated job boom is not limited to advanced degree holders; over 70% of these roles are expected to be accessible to individuals without graduate degrees, and nearly a third will be open to those with associate's degrees or technical training, broadening the pathways into this emerging field.
The rapid acceleration of quantum startups, the adoption of quantum technologies by end-use companies, and the development of infrastructure like the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on Chicago’s South Side are key drivers behind this projected growth. As the quantum ecosystem matures, regional partnerships are actively implementing strategies focused on industry-led training, hands-on learning, and robust academic-industry collaboration to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of meeting this escalating demand.
Projected Job Scale and Educational Pathways by 2035
The Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana region is forecast to experience a dramatic increase in quantum technology employment, with a 2024 analysis by Boston Consulting Group for the Chicago Quantum Exchange projecting up to 191,000 jobs by 2035. This substantial growth is contingent upon continued government investment in the sector. The projections indicate a diverse range of opportunities across various skillsets and industries, reflecting the broad applicability of quantum technologies.
A significant aspect of these projections is the accessibility of these future roles across different educational backgrounds. The analysis suggests that more than 70% of the quantum jobs available by 2035 will not require graduate degrees. Furthermore, nearly a third of these positions are expected to be open to individuals holding associate's degrees or those who have completed technical training programs. This trend aligns with a recent CQE study, which found that approximately two-thirds of current quantum jobs at companies are already accessible to candidates with a bachelor's degree or less, underscoring a broad entry point into the field.
Accelerated Growth Trajectory
The expansion of quantum technology jobs in the Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana region is not merely a steady increase but an accelerating trend. Analysts predict a particularly rapid surge in job creation during the latter half of the projection period. Between 2027 and 2030, the number of quantum jobs is expected to grow by more than 200%.
This rapid acceleration is set to intensify further, with projections indicating an even more dramatic increase of over 550% between 2030 and 2035. Such an aggressive growth trajectory underscores the urgent need for robust workforce development initiatives to ensure a sufficient supply of skilled professionals to fill these emerging roles as the quantum ecosystem matures and expands.
