ETCS Interstate Quantum Hackathon for Beginners

We are excited to invite students to participate in the Interstate Quantum Hackathon for Beginners 2026, taking place October 22–24, 2026.

This is a multi-state, interinstitutional hybrid event organized by faculty and programs from universities across Tennessee, Indiana, Missouri, Alabama, and Florida.

You do not need to attend a partner university to participate, everyone is welcome.

Most importantly, no prior quantum computing experience is required. The program is specifically designed for beginners, including undergraduate students, graduate students, and working professionals who would like to explore quantum computing.

What participants will receive:

• Pre-hackathon online training in quantum fundamentals, Qiskit, VQE, quantum machine learning, and optimization.

• Hands-on experience with quantum computing and Qiskit

• Beginner-friendly challenges in:

  • VQE for Chemistry & Materials

  • Quantum Machine Learning for real-world data

  • Optimization for Energy & the Electric Grid

• Industry talk and interaction with mentors

• IBM Certificate of Participation

• MTSU digital badge

• Awards, food, and participant stipend/support opportunities

Important dates:

Registration closes: October 4, 2026

Online Training:
Oct. 9 & Oct. 16 | 12:00–1:30 PM CDT

Hackathon:
Oct. 22–24, 2026

The hackathon will be hybrid. Students at participating institutions can work together at their local sites and connect across institutions via Zoom. Students from other institutions are equally welcome to register and participate online.

Event website:
Interstate Quantum Hackathon for Beginners 2026
 

Whether you have already studied quantum computing or are simply curious about it, this is an opportunity to start from the basics, receive training, work with mentors, and complete your first quantum computing challenge.

Contact David Liu [email protected] who is the local host for Purdue University Fort Wayne.