The Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance (MPQA) actively collaborates with Montana State University (MSU) and other partners to strengthen the synergy between academia and industry in the fields of photonics and quantum technologies.

MSU has solidified its position as a leading innovation campus, dedicated to advancing photonics and quantum technology development and commercialization. The university has secured over $85 million in federal funding for quantum research and development, with plans to apply for an additional $200 million in 2024.

A portion of this funding will support the construction of a quantum testbed on MSU’s Innovation Campus facilitating collaboration between researchers and industry partners.

Additionally, MSU co-leads the MonArk Quantum Foundry an NSF program in partnership with the University of Arkansas, aiming to accelerate two-dimensional materials research for quantum technologies in the United States. The foundry was built by a $22.6M NSF grant – one of only two awarded.

In July 2024, Montana State University’s Applied Quantum CORE (QCORE) with support from the Air Force Research Laboratory, published the Quantum under the Big Sky, an educational & workforce development report authored by Jason Yager, Executive Director of the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance (MPQA). This report was developed to support advancements in photonics and quantum research.

In October 2024, MSU’s Science Math Resource Center in collaboration with the Montana Work-based Learning Collaborative, MPQA, and MSU’s Applied Quantum CORE, hosted “New Frontiers: A Statewide Convening.” This event focused on quantum education and workforce development, outlining actionable steps to enhance Montana’s position in the quantum industry. 

These initiatives highlight Montana’s commitment to becoming a premier quantum cluster in the United States, leveraging the combined strengths of MSU, MPQA, and industry partners to drive innovation and economic opportunity.

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The Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance (MPQA) actively collaborates with Montana State University’s (MSU) Optical Technology Center (OpTeC) and Spectrum Lab to advance research and innovation in photonics and quantum technologies.

Established in 1995, OpTeC is a multidisciplinary center at MSU that promotes education and research in optical science and engineering. MPQA partners with OpTeC to co-host the annual OpTeC conference, fostering collaboration among students, faculty, industry professionals, and other stakeholders to address practical challenges and explore new applications for optical technology. 

Founded in 1999, Spectrum Lab serves as a bridge between MSU’s research laboratories and the private sector, advancing opto-electronic technologies and facilitating their transition to Montana companies. MPQA’s collaboration with Spectrum Lab enhances educational opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students, enabling them to engage in team-oriented, goal-driven research and development projects. 

Through these strategic partnerships, MPQA strengthens Montana’s position as a leader in photonics and quantum research, driving innovation and economic growth in the region.

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MPQA collaborates with Gallatin College Montana State University and helped develop and launch Gallatin College’s Photonics & Laser Technology program. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in this dynamic field. This partnership is designed to provide hands-on training, industry-aligned curriculum, and direct pathways to high-tech careers in photonics, lasers, and optical engineering. Through these educational initiatives, Gallatin College contributes to the growth and sustainability of Montana’s photonics industry, complementing the efforts of the MPQA.

In addition, the MPQA is collaborating with Accelerate Montana to offer rapid training programs tailored for technicians in the photonics industry. These programs are designed to equip participants with the essential skills required to excel in Montana’s photonics sector. Led by industry experts, the training spans nine weeks, with participants engaging approximately 10 hours per week in hands-on learning experiences. 

MPQA is helping to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring that students gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to support Montana’s expanding photonics and quantum sector. These joint initiatives reflect our commitment to workforce development, innovation, and economic growth in the region.