WASHINGTON, D.C. –
The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) hosted its first-ever Quantum STEM Challenge on Wednesday, Aug. 7, bringing together high school students for a day of immersive, hands-on learning in quantum computing and real-world Naval research.
The event welcomed more than 30 students, offering them a rare opportunity to explore emerging quantum technologies through simulations, problem-solving activities, and interaction with NRL scientists.
“Quantum technologies are poised to transform the future across a wide range of applications from cybersecurity to materials science,” said Chief of Naval Research, Rear Admiral Kurt Rothenhaus. “This event helped students see how the Navy is investing in this next frontier and how they can be part of it.”
Real-World STEM Learning
Students began the day by learning fundamental quantum concepts such as qubits, superposition, and entanglement. They engaged in interactive simulations using IBM’s Quantum Lab, where they constructed basic quantum circuits and observed how quantum algorithms behave differently than classical ones.
Later, students explored real-world Naval applications by simulating spin dynamics in magnetic materials, an area of ongoing research at NRL. This activity helped connect foundational quantum principles with mission-relevant challenges faced by the Department of the Navy.
Throughout the day, students participated in a variety of structured sessions. The morning began with a welcome from NRL leadership and an overview of the lab’s mission, followed by a presentation on the power of quantum computing. Students then received a tutorial on IBM’s Quantum Experience platform and completed a series of simulations to explore basic quantum operations. After a break for lunch, during which students had the opportunity to engage with NRL scientists, the afternoon focused on deeper application of quantum concepts through hands-on challenges related to Naval research. The day concluded with a wrap-up session and recognition for the students’ participation.
“This is my first experience with quantum computing, and it was definitely challenging at first,” said Grace Mathews, a rising high school senior. “But once I started interacting with people at my table and asking them questions, it began to make more sense, I always loved pre-med, and I really want to be a doctor, but after this experience I’m more interested in research than I ever expected.”
“I’ve always had an interest in mechanical engineering, but before today, I don’t’ think I fully appreciated the complexity of quantum computing,” said Stanley Karwoski, a rising freshman at Liberty University. “I really enjoyed working with different gates and modules, stacking them, and seeing how they interact to produce different outputs and phases, it’s just fun.”
Participants left the event with a deeper understanding of quantum computing’s potential and its relevance to national security. The challenge also highlighted the importance of STEM education in preparing future scientists and engineers to solve complex problems across government, academia, and industry.
John Stenger, Ph.D., research physicist at NRL who led the day’s activities, emphasized the significance of early engagement in quantum science. “We’re entering a new era of quantum computing, and the next generation has a lot to discover and contribute,” he said. “I was genuinely impressed by how engaged the students were. They were asking thoughtful questions, thinking critically, and beginning to grasp concepts that have challenged scientists for more than a century.”
The Quantum STEM Challenge is part of NRL’s broader commitment to engaging students in cutting-edge research and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
About the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory
NRL is a scientific and engineering command dedicated to research that drives innovative advances for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps from the seafloor to space and in the information domain. NRL, located in Washington, D.C. with major field sites in Stennis Space Center, Mississippi; Key West, Florida; Monterey, California, and employs approximately 3,000 civilian scientists, engineers and support personnel.
For more information, contact NRL Corporate Communications at (202) 480-3746 or nrlpao@nrl.navy.mil.