Women in Quantum

Navigating Quantum Careers: Advice, Challenges, and Wins for Aspiring Women Scientists

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:15:00 -0400

In today’s episode, we dive into the journey of Marie-Eve Boulanger, government relations manager at Nord Quantique—a company at the forefront of building Canada’s quantum computing future.

Marie Eve shares her path from a science-inspired childhood in Quebec, fueled by support from her scientist mother, to pivotal international experiences and academic pursuits that shaped her passion for quantum physics. We’ll explore the real obstacles and the systemic challenges women face in STEM fields, as well as the supportive networks and proactive advocacy shaping today’s quantum community.

We’ll hear about redefining success, how curiosity and drive led Marie Eve to an innovative role bridging science and policy, and her advice for young women thinking about entering this ever-expanding field.

Whether you’re curious about quantum or passionate about building inclusive scientific communities, this episode offers practical insights, inspiration, and a vision for the evolving landscape of quantum technology—where everyone, regardless of background, has a chance to help shape the future.

Time Stamps

Navigating Setbacks and Success in Quantum with Petra Soderling

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:30:00 -0400

In this episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Petra Soderling—an accomplished leader whose journey from the arts and business to dual roles in the US and EU quantum landscapes is as winding as it is inspiring.

From her early days in Finland with no interest in science to navigating the corporate world at Nokia, launching startups across the US, and ultimately advising governments on quantum strategy, Petra Soderling shatters the myth that you need a PhD in physics to succeed in this industry. She shares candid reflections on advocating for women in tech, the crucial role of government in building deep tech industries, and how empathy, communication, and interdisciplinary skills are transforming the future of quantum.

Whether you’re considering your first steps into quantum or looking to understand the power of global collaboration and policy, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration. Join us as we step into the stories, challenges, and victories of women who are redefining what’s possible in quantum technology.

Time Stamps

00:00 "Women Shaping Quantum Futures"

05:53 From U.S. to Finland: Quantum

09:27 Quantum Strategies for Economic Growth

12:01 "Holistic View on Quantum Tech"

17:44 "Technology, Government, and Investment Strategies"

19:00 "Women, Tech, and Horizons"

24:35 Driving Improvement Everywhere

25:51 "Challenging Bias in Fellowship Picks"

29:31 Empathy, Value, and Preparation

31:59 "Stages of Career Evolution"

36:25 "Polymath Thinking and Mentorship"

39:46 "Know Worth, Communicate, and Persevere"

42:36 "Corporate Misjudgments of Startups"

46:38 "Women in Tech Conference Tracks"

48:49 "Navigating Imposter Syndrome Insights"

Ethics, AI, and Quantum: Why ‘I’m Not Going to Jail for You’ Matters in Tech

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:20:00 -0400

In this episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Sierra Clouse, managing partner at Barlow Ventures Studios, for a candid and insightful conversation about her journey from growing up in Colorado to leading pivotal ventures in quantum technology.

Together, they explore Sierra Claus's early fascination with how things work, her career pivots through logistics, technology, and entrepreneurship, and her unique lens on commercialization in quantum tech. From the challenges of navigating recessions and career interruptions to unexpectedly landing in the world of quantum, Sierra Claus shares valuable lessons on adaptability, ethics, and the importance of building with intention in a rapidly changing landscape.

Whether you're quantum curious or a deep tech veteran, this episode offers a refreshingly real look at career pivots, the complexities of venture building, and the surprising ethical considerations shaping tomorrow's tech. Get ready for an episode packed with wisdom, wit, and perspective from one of the women leading the charge in quantum innovation.

Time Stamps

00:00 "From Cleveland to Denver"

06:48 "Tech's Role in Early Logistics"

10:24 Reflection on Disruption & Careers

11:17 Path to Tech and Talent

16:39 "Adaptability in a Changing World"

19:44 From Emerging Tech to Xbox

22:42 "Blockchain Beyond Cryptocurrency"

26:24 "Blockchain's Potential for Accessibility"

31:03 "Greed, Fear, Ethics, and Consequences"

33:40 "Quantum Tech and Cyber Focus"

36:10 "Quantum Tech Venture Studio Proposal"

39:35 "Building Quantum Innovation Against Odds"

45:25 "Defining Hardware in Deep Tech"

48:16 "Quantum Tech Perception Gap"

51:25 "Surprising Uses for Technology"

53:36 "Celebrating Diverse Perspectives"

Confidence Means Ignoring the Noise

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:25:00 -0400

In this episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Jennifer Pretki—a quantum physicist, AI influencer, speaker, and policymaker with one foot in academia and the other in entrepreneurial tech leadership.

Jennifer Pretki opens up about her early fascination with astronomy, her journey from France to collaborative research at Stanford, and the shift from particle physics to becoming a pioneering data scientist. Together, they explore the cultural contrasts between France and the U.S. for women in quantum, the subtle barriers to inclusion, and how confidence and resilience evolve with career challenges.

From the practical steps students can take to break into the quantum field, to the intersection of AI and quantum computing, Jennifer Pretki shares hard-earned advice for outsiders and aspiring leaders. She also gets candid about motherhood, breaking stereotypes, and why mentorship and visibility at mainstream events are essential for lasting change.

If you’re passionate about quantum, inspired by stories of tenacity, or curious how the next wave of technology will unfold, this conversation is your front-row seat to the real stories shaping the future of science and tech.

Time Stamps

00:00 Dreaming of the Cosmos

05:59 "Women in Science: Cultural Perspectives"

09:48 Unexpected Challenges in Academia & Industry

14:08 Breaking Gender Bias Through Action

17:28 "Quantum Careers Beyond Physics"

19:36 From Academia to Industry Transition

25:09 "Challenges and Potential in Quantum Data"

27:19 Quantum Computing's Origins and Future

32:36 "Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Work"

36:56 "Overcoming Barriers and Learning Tech"

39:46 "Empowering Women Through Inclusion"

42:05 "Challenging Gender and Salary Bias"

45:27 "Empowering Women Through Conversation"

How to Build a Life in Quantum Without a Physics Background

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:30:00 -0400

On this episode of WIQC, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Sara Metwalli, a research associate in quantum computing whose journey spans continents: from her early days in Egypt dreaming of being an engineer, through graduate studies in Japan, to her current role at the University of Edinburgh.

Sara Metwalli shares her experience navigating cultural expectations, overcoming imposter syndrome, and forging her own path in science without a traditional physics background. The conversation explores how quantum computing is becoming more accessible beyond the physics realm, the importance of application-driven research, and ways to build a more inclusive quantum community.

Tune in for insights on career resilience, the value of supportive mentors and friends, and why representation in STEM matters for inspiring future generations.

Links

Sara's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-a-metwalli/

Time Stamps

00:00 "Math's Role in Science Learning"

04:44 "Gender Bias in Engineering"

07:31 "Societal Expectations and Women's Roles"

10:24 "Balancing Comfort, Curiosity, and Expectations"

14:11 Early Barriers for Women Scientists

19:13 "New Beginnings and Perseverance"

22:38 "Overcoming Doubts Through Achievement"

24:47 "Prioritizing Passion Over Perception"

29:13 "Quantum's Evolving Opportunities Explained"

32:16 Equity in Emerging Quantum Technology

34:56 "Expanding Access to Quantum Science"

39:34 Evaluating Hardware and Application Performance

40:20 Streamlining Quantum Code Optimization

44:54 Quantum Computing's Promising Applications

47:12 Chicken Optimization Problem

53:02 "Why Research Matters to People"

54:34 "Selective Advice Matters Most"

Navigating Career Doubts and High-Performance Challenges in the Quantum Industry

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:55:00 -0400

Welcome back to WIQC, the podcast where we shine a light on the women transforming the quantum technology landscape.

In this episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Sabine, Chief Quantum Project Officer at GENCI, to explore her fascinating journey from a curious student in France to a leader at the forefront of quantum computing.

You’ll hear about Sabine’s early passions for history, math, and biology, her leap from business school to electrical engineering—where she was one of the few women in her class—and how a sense of curiosity and a talent for collaboration propelled her into the highly multidisciplinary world of quantum. Sabine reflects on overcoming self-doubt, finding balance as a mother and professional, and the surprising skills beyond technical know-how that are essential in deep tech.

This episode unpacks not only the challenges and breakthroughs of building a career in quantum but also the importance of community, mentorship, and supporting the next generation—especially girls and women considering a future in STEM. Whether you’re dreaming of entering the quantum field or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation is packed with wisdom, honesty, and encouragement. Get ready to dive into the real stories behind the science, and learn what it takes to succeed—and thrive—in quantum technology.

Time Stamps

00:00 "Passion for Learning and Math"

03:13 Teacher's Influence Shapes Career Path

06:25 "Overcoming Challenges Through Solidarity"

10:29 "Navigating Multidisciplinary Quantum Collaboration"

12:54 "Quantum Computing Access and Development"

17:13 "Navigating Unknown Career Paths"

21:17 Navigating Doubts in Emerging Tech

28:09 "Bridging Gaps in Quantum Adoption"

32:38 "Networking in Quantum Industry"

37:23 Supportive Women Empower Each Other

41:36 "Supportive Partner Turned Friend"

43:07 Inspiring Young Minds in Science

46:42 Motivating Team with Optimistic Leaders

49:58 "Music Takes Us Out"

Curiosity, Confidence, and Quantum - The Professional Evolution of Devinka Mehra

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:15:00 -0400

Welcome back to WIQC! In this episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Devinka Mehra, a software engineer at Microsoft who’s blazing a trail in quantum security. From her roots as a curious, talkative child in Delhi to her journey through engineering, cybersecurity, and a recent master’s in quantum information science, Devinka Mehra opens up about the mix of support, self-discovery, and risk-taking that shaped her career.

They discuss what it’s like to be a woman in STEM—navigating confidence, embracing vulnerability, and pushing back against narrow expectations. Devinka Mehra shares why now is the perfect time to jump into quantum, how to set yourself up for growth even if you feel “behind,” and the importance of taking small, meaningful steps on your own path. The episode is packed with insights on staying grounded when dealing with big, world-changing tech—plus practical advice for anyone, regardless of background, who wants to break into quantum computing.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about curiosity, courage, and the culture that’s shaping the future of tech.

Time Stamps

00:00 "Childhood Curiosity About Careers"

05:21 "Love for Max and Encouragement"

08:56 "Early Inspiration for Computing Journey"

12:55 "Inner Drive Fuels Growth"

17:03 "Master's Journey: A Risky Dream"

19:12 "Right Choices Rewarded Over Time"

21:45 "Navigating Research Decisions"

27:38 "Unity in Facing Global Challenges"

30:56 Quantum Mechanics: A Growing Field

32:45 "The Power of Curiosity"

37:53 "Discovering Hidden Potential"

38:49 Balancing Emotional and Professional Growth

44:54 "Start from the Basics"

45:45 "Start Basic, Persist, Learn"

48:56 "Connect on LinkedIn"

Before Titles and Credentials

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:30:00 -0400

Before quantum computing, before titles and credentials, there was a fearless six-year-old.

Welcome to Women in Quantum Computing, the podcast where curiosity meets courage, and we explore the many unique journeys that bring women into the world of quantum science and technology. In this episode, host Candace Gillhoolley welcomes Anna Beata Kalish Hedegaard, CEO of Quantum Security Defense and Quantum Prime, to share her inspiring story.

From her fearless childhood curiosity to her pathbreaking work in quantum computing and entrepreneurship, Anna Beata Kalish Hedegaard reflects on challenging stereotypes, navigating self-doubt, and building inclusive communities. She and Candace Gillhoolley dive into the importance of representation, the power of storytelling, and the need for more women in science and tech—while also tackling some of the biggest misconceptions and ethical questions in the field of quantum computing.

Whether you’re an aspiring scientist, seasoned professional, or just curious about the quantum revolution, this conversation is sure to spark your imagination and leave you feeling motivated to carve your own path. Tune in for a heartfelt, eye-opening discussion about finding your place in one of the most exciting frontiers of our time.

This episode of Women in Quantum explores confidence, curiosity, and the human side of deep tech, from growing up fearless to navigating self-doubt, leadership, and the responsibility of building technology that serves people.

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways

Fearlessness is not lost — it’s often unlearned
Wanting “too much” is often a signal of ambition, not excess
Representation in stories shapes who feels they belong
Quantum technology must be explained in human terms
Listening is as important as intelligence in leadership
The future of tech depends on connection, ethics, and care
Non-technical voices are essential in shaping emerging technologies

⏱️ Notable Moments & Topics

Fearlessness in childhood and how confidence changes over time
Being discouraged from math — even while excelling at it
Why stories and media shape who feels welcome in science
Choosing physics “by accident” — and following curiosity instead of plans
Moving from academia to entrepreneurship
Explaining quantum security without technical jargon
Why quantum computing won’t exist in isolation
The ethical responsibility of emerging technologies
Building inclusive, welcoming communities in deep tech

If this episode resonated with you:

Follow Women in Quantum for more conversations at the intersection of technology and humanity
Share this episode with someone who’s been told they want “too much”
Join the conversation — your curiosity belongs here

Time Stamps

00:00 "Women in Quantum Podcast"

06:08 Encouraged Early in STEM Path

13:53 "Craving Complex Female Characters"

17:47 "Curiosity-Driven Career Journey"

26:30 Overcoming Doubt: Academic to CEO

32:47 "Connecting Minds Through Technology"

34:48 "Explaining Privacy in Simple Terms"

44:53 "The Importance of Human Connections"

48:21 "Preparing Future Generations to Thrive"

51:42 "Creating Inclusive, Collaborative Spaces"

57:13 "Women Empowerment in Warsaw"