The Coding School

Purpose: the Q-ready: Developing the DMVS Quantum-ready Cybersecurity Workforce Project Will Train Undergraduate Students in Quantum Cryptography, Post-quantum Cryptography (PQC), and Related Career Pathways Across the D.c.-maryland-virginia Metropolitan Region. the Project Will Engage 50 Undergraduate Students, Expanding Education and Workforce Opportunities in Quantum Cryptography and PQC, by Equipping Participants for Careers in Quantum Cybersecurity Through the Development of Technical Skills and Workforce Readiness Aligned With Industry and Government Needs.activities to Be Performed: Q-ready Will Implement a Hybrid, Two-phase Program Consisting of a Three-week Technical Training in Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Followed by a Five-week Mentored Research Project or Internship With Regional Industry Partners. the Program Will Engage Academic and Industry Collaborators to Deliver Curriculum on Quantum Cryptography and Post-quantum Cryptography (PQC), Aligned With Nice Framework Standards, While Also Offering Career Panels, Socio-emotional Learning, and Workforce Readiness Coaching.expected Outcomes: the Program Will Train 50 Undergraduates in 2026, With at Least 80% Advancing to Applied Internship or Research Opportunities and 75% Successfully Completing Them, Demonstrating Quantum-secure Competencies. Participants Are Expected to Show Measurable Increases in Technical Proficiency, Career Awareness, Confidence, and Belonging in Stem, While Q-ready Partners Publish Findings and Models for Replication Through Conferences, Publications, and Public Reports.intended Beneficiaries: College Students From the DMV Region Will Gain Early Access to Quantum Cybersecurity Skills, Mentorship, and Career Pathways in Emerging Technologies. Regional Employers, Quantum Startups, and National Security Agencies Will Benefit From a Growing Pipeline of Quantum-literate Cybersecurity Talent Trained to Meet Future-ready Workforce Demands.subrecipient Activities: the Coding School Has Allocated $5,000 Per Internship (5) and $1,600 Per Mentored Research Position (25) as Subawards. Subaward for Co-pi, John Sawyer, University of Maryland, College Park in the Amount of $18,190.60.