Road to Practitioner Programme: Building the Pipeline of Future Quantum Computing Experts

The Road to Practitioner (R2P) programme kicked off today at the Iberdrola Tower in Bilbao, with the aim of training the various players in the Basque quantum ecosystem in programming with Qiskit and providing them with a practical, rigorous introduction to quantum computing. This in-person session served as the opening event for a three-month programme that will combine conceptual training, hands-on exercises, and a Capstone Project as its final deliverable.

Through this training pathway, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in key areas such as utility-scale quantum algorithms — including variational algorithms, Quantum Machine Learning, and Hamiltonian simulation — as well as the latest Qiskit tools for transpilation, error mitigation, and dynamic circuits. This approach is especially relevant for the business sector, as it enables companies to begin identifying, defining, and developing concrete use cases in which quantum computing capabilities can become a differentiating factor, enabling significant — and potentially even exponential — improvements in areas such as optimization, materials science, health and life sciences, and high-energy physics. Indeed, Road to Practitioner is an excellent starting point for learning to work with the IBM Quantum System Two, now that it is also available to industry.

The opening session was a notable success, with the presence and guidance of IBM Quantum experts providing participants with their first direct exposure to the programme's content and methodology. The day also included a talk by Igor Campillo, Director of Euskampus Fundazioa, who shared BasQ's strategic vision and the role that training and talent development play in consolidating the Basque quantum ecosystem.

Another highlight of the day was the contribution of the BasQ Advocates, members of the BasQ community who play an active role in spreading knowledge, developing talent, and strengthening collaboration among the region's various stakeholders. Throughout the programme, these Advocates will mentor the different working groups and lead the planned hands-on sessions.

The opening in-person session also encouraged interaction among participants, facilitating the exchange of ideas, networking, and the resolution of initial questions thanks to the accessibility of both the IBM experts and the BasQ Advocates.

Diversity of the community as a key success factor

One of the most notable aspects of this edition of Road to Practitioner is the diversity of profiles represented, which includes students from various degree and master's programmes, university faculty, professionals from the business sector — from organizations such as Multiverse Computing, Global Data Quantum, Quantum Mads, Accenture, LKS Next, Lantek Sheet Metal Solutions, and Nasertic, among others — as well as researchers from leading centres such as the Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) and BCAM, and technology centres such as LORTEK.

The high level of enthusiasm and scientific curiosity that marked this opening session reflects a strategic programme that reaffirms BasQ's commitment to training and consolidating the Basque quantum community. Initiatives such as Road to Practitioner make a decisive contribution to strengthening Basque Quantum's role as a driver of technological development and talent in the field of quantum computing in the Basque Country.