US electric power distribution and telecoms company EPB has announced a Quantum Computing Fellowship to provide training and real-world experience, equipping participants to develop quantum solutions that benefit EPB customers and the Chattanooga community.

The new programme is designed to build a local quantum-ready workforce and support new, local job creation from the rapidly emerging quantum industry. Eight fellows will participate in the programme, which provides hands-on experience and quantum-ready skills.

Development of quantum technologies

The fellowship was established thanks to a $4m National Institute of Standards and Technology (Nist) grant awarded in 2024 to accelerate the research, development, and workforce development of quantum technologies.

“This critical investment in workforce development will prepare a highly skilled workforce to lead the quantum future and keep Chattanooga’s innovation ecosystem on the cutting edge,” said EPB president and CEO-elect Janet Rehberg. “We appreciate the support of congressman Chuck Fleischmann [3rd district of Tennessee], who has championed East Tennessee’s role in advancing quantum technology to shape the future of national security, energy and economic competitiveness.”

“This critical investment in workforce development will prepare a highly skilled workforce to lead the quantum future and keep Chattanooga’s innovation ecosystem on the cutting edge”

Quantum computing manager Paul Smith leads the fellows programme. Previously, Smith held leadership roles in technology and innovation at EPB, managing enterprise-scale systems and guiding teams through complex modernisation efforts.

With varied experience spanning software development, infrastructure optimisation, and the adoption of emerging technologies, Smith applies his perspective to bridge traditional computing with quantum advancements.