Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the show for everyone from the quantum curious to the truly entangled enthusiast. In this episode, we venture beyond Schrödinger’s cat and into the very real world of quantum-inspired engineering with guest Marouane Salhi, a physicist and CEO of Qubit Engineering. Hosted by Candace Gillhoolley, Frank La Vigne, and BAILeY, this conversation dives into how quantum optimization is already tackling some of the planet’s biggest infrastructure challenges—think wind farm layouts and power grid management—not with futuristic quantum computers, but with innovative quantum-inspired algorithms and simulators.

Marouane walks us through the journey from theoretical quantum physics to practical engineering impact, revealing how “boring” problems like turbine arrangement and network switch toggling are paving the way for quantum innovation. The discussion covers the realities and myths of current quantum hardware, the rise of quantum-inspired solvers, and why interdisciplinary teamwork is essential for this fast-evolving field. Whether you’re a student, developer, investor, or just love to say “quantum” at dinner parties, this episode offers invaluable advice on how to get involved, what skills matter, and what the next 10 to 15 years of quantum technology might hold. Tune in for grounded insights, practical strategies, and a glimpse of how quantum thinking is quietly reshaping our world—sometimes, in the most surprisingly unglamorous corners.

Timestamps

00:00 Quantum Optimization Startup Leadership

03:53 Quantum Computing: Finding Use Cases

07:21 Turbine Hub Altitude and Size

12:00 Bridging Research Tools for Industry

16:15 Shift to Quantum-Inspired Solvers

18:27 "Quantum Solvers Improve Optimization"

23:14 Quantum Computing in Molecular Simulation

26:49 "Quantum Computing Development Insights"

28:55 Future of Quantum Engineering Insights

33:24 Rethinking Engineering Problem-Solving

37:28 Quantum Engineering Problem Optimization

41:28 "Start Preparing for Quantum Computing"

44:08 Interdisciplinary Collaborative Workforce Vision

47:02 Quantum Collaboration in Energy Solutions

49:32 "Embracing Quantum Tech Opportunities"

54:32 Advancing Understanding Through Complex Problems

57:20 Quantum's Present Impact