Event Summary
Quantum computing is one of the most exciting frontiers in technology, and Austin's scene is buzzing with potential. This is a networking and discussion meetup for everyone interested in the field—with many seasoned experts from leading quantum companies, and open to people with experience in quantum computing, other computing professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about quantum computing.
Come join fellow quantum professionals and enthusiasts to:
Share information on the latest breakthroughs and projects.
Discuss possibilities, from big challenges to new opportunities.
Make connections with others in Austin's growing quantum community.
Discuss whether Austin can become a quantum center of excellence and what it would require.
This is a great chance to learn, network, and talk about what we can do to help grow the quantum ecosystem right here in Austin. A full list of quantum computing professionals will be added to this page as confirmations come in.
Speakers
Kartik Dixit, Professional Services, D-Wave
Kartik Dixit is an accomplished technology and operations leader, currently serving in the Professional Services organization at D-Wave, a pioneering Canadian quantum computing company. In this role, he helps enterprises leverage D-Wave’s hybrid quantum-classical solutions to tackle complex, real-world optimization challenges across diverse industries. D-Wave is recognized as the world’s first company to commercialize quantum computers that harness quantum effects.
Before joining D-Wave, Kartik founded and successfully divested two consulting firms, each employing over 100 consultants, that specialized in ERP and GIS solutions for the Oil & Gas sector, State & Local Governments, and mid-sized enterprises. He also served as Director of Operations at the Harris County Flood Control District, where he led all organizational support functions and operational initiatives.
Kartik holds a Master of Science in Computer Science and is passionate about sustainability and design. In his spare time, he builds energy-efficient custom homes in Houston’s inner loop, combining innovation with a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Philip Farah, VP Sales, Industries and Strategic Relationships, IonQ
As VP Sales, Industries and Strategic Partnerships at IonQ, Philip Farah is responsible for developing IonQ’s strategic partnerships with a focus on revenue growth and on strengthening IonQ’s position at the center of the Quantum Computing Ecosystem. Prior to joining IonQ, Philip ran Services and Engineering Sales, Global Accounts for Worldwide Technology, a leading systems integrator and IT infrastructure value-added reseller. Philip started his career in the US as a consultant with McKinsey & Co, and has held several leadership roles at Gartner (Senior Managing Partner, Financial Services), Cisco Systems (head of Global FSI Innovation strategy practice), and Capital One Financial (head of Recoveries Analytics).
William (whurley) Hurley, CEO, Strangeworks
whurley is founder and CEO of Strangeworks, an Eisenhower Fellow, a Senior Member of the IEEE, founder of the Quantum Computing Standards Workgroup at the IEEE, the first Ambassador to CERN and Society, and the co-author of "Quantum Computing For Babies” and the upcoming “Quantum Computing for Dummies” (available for pre-order now). Prior to starting Strangeworks he was a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs [NYSE: GS]. He came to Goldman Sachs via the acquisition of his second startup, Honest Dollar. Prior to Honest Dollar whurley founded Chaotic Moon Studios which was acquired by Accenture [NYSE: ACN].
Thien-An Nguyen, Chief Technology Officer, ORCA Computing
As Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at ORCA Computing, Thien-An Nguyen spearheads the company’s technological advancements and translates innovative ideas into tangible products. With a robust background encompassing both software and hardware development, Thien-An leverages a couple decades of experience to drive the development of cutting-edge technologies. His expertise lies in shepherding concepts from inception through the phases of prototyping and into full-fledged product realization. Prior to his role at ORCA Computing, Thien-An served as the Vice President of R&D Strategy at GXC, where he led the photonics division in delivering solutions across diverse sectors including AI accelerators, telecommunications, biomedical sensors, electronic warfare, signals intelligence, and spectroscopy. His passion for fusing diverse research disciplines fuels his commitment to delivering impactful quantum-enhanced capabilities tailored to address multifaceted challenges across numerous customer industries.
David Wiese, Sr. Director SLED & Business Development, IonQ
Attendance Instructions
All participants must register for this event via Eventbrite. This will be an in-person event held at Remedy Bar. Paid street parking is available