Tennessee Tech’s CEROC hosts Quantum Discovery Day
Students observe a demonstration at Quantum Discovery Day.
Tennessee Tech University’s Cybersecurity Education, Research and Outreach Center
(CEROC) continued to lead efforts in advancing quantum education and research with
its “Quantum Discover Day,” held recently on Tech's campus in collaboration with the
university's student chapter of Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)-Women.
The daylong event allowed Tech students to learn more about quantum technology, with
a focus on security and privacy applications, and positions the university for a continued
leadership role in the emerging field of quantum-enhanced cybersecurity.
A highlight of Quantum Discovery Day was the announcement of a new course, “Introduction
to quantum computing and applications,” which will be offered in spring 2025. The
course provides an accessible pathway to mastering quantum fundamentals, computing,
networking and A.I. - all with direct applications in cybersecurity.
By focusing on real-world use cases, students will explore how quantum technologies
can transform security and privacy solutions. Using a quantum programming language,
students will gain hands-on experience implementing concepts on a quantum computer
simulator, making the learning practical and immersive.
CEROC’s Quantum Discovery Day also featured a prototype for quantum key distribution
(QKD) developed by Tech students. The platform enables a transition from theory to
a hands-on demonstration, showing how quantum technology can enable secure communication
between devices. Using a laser beam to represent quantum data, or qubits, and lenses
operating as quantum gates, the platform demonstrates how qubits can enhance the security
of key exchange.
“This experience was a great opportunity to learn about quantum,” said Tech student
Lance Young, a developer within the project. “I enjoyed being able to work with my
hands and see the progress of the QKD platform as it was put together. I hope that
we can continue to develop the platform as it still has room for improvement, and
it will help educating our future Tech students.”
Another highlight of Quantum Discovery Day was CEROC’s showcase of a quantum video
game, developed entirely by Tech students to make learning quantum gates and circuit
design engaging and accessible. In this game, players take on the role of a robot
navigating a facility and using qubits to unlock doors and solve challenges. Each
puzzle reinforces concepts in quantum security. By interacting with qubits in a gaming
environment, participants gain an intuitive understanding of how quantum circuits
function, especially in cybersecurity contexts. This interactive tool will become
a valuable asset in both classroom learning and outreach events, bringing complex
quantum ideas to life in an exciting way. 
During Quantum Discovery Day, Tech’s students also learned about the National Science
Foundation's EQUIS grant. This fund provides students with opportunities to learn
about quantum technology, equipping them with critical knowledge and skills that bridge
academic and industry needs. Through this grant, students at Tech are not only able
to learn foundational quantum concepts but are also given the chance to participate
in hands-on research activities that directly apply to cybersecurity. This support
empowers students to lead in the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum technology,
setting them up for impactful careers in quantum-secure systems.
"Quantum Discovery Day at CEROC was a significant step forward in demystifying quantum
technology and exploring its applications in cybersecurity,” said Muhammad Ismail,
CEROC director. “By showcasing hands-on demonstrations, we made complex ideas accessible
and engaging. Our new introductory quantum computing course, coupled with the NSF
EQUIS award, underscores CEROC's proactive approach to preparing students for the
future of cybersecurity in a quantum-driven world.”
Ismail continued, “With workforce development support from the National Science Foundation,
we will train nearly 120 students in the southeast in collaboration with partner institutions,
ensuring they enter the workforce with cutting-edge skills. We are excited to help
shape a new generation of cybersecurity professionals ready for the upcoming quantum
era."
A longtime leader in cybersecurity issues, Tech was selected by the National Security
Agency (NSA) and National Science Foundation (NSF) to deliver the Tennessee GenCyber
on Wheels program, building upon its long-standing GenCyber summer camps. Tech also
hosts the first and largest CyberCorps SFS program in the state as well as the Department
of Defense Cyber Service Academy. The university is recognized as a center of academic
excellence in cyber defense education by the NSA and is home of the Golden Eagle Cyber
Certificate program, a dual enrollment program allowing high school students to take
college-level cybersecurity courses contributing to their post-secondary work.
CEROC focuses on K-20 cybersecurity education programs, research in emerging cybersecurity
topics and outreach programs to stakeholders in academia, government and industry.
Learn more at www.tntech.edu/ceroc or by emailing ceroc@tntech.edu.