How it Works

NEXUS trainees are selected through a competitive application process and will work on ARLIS projects during the two-year program. 

Applied training includes instruction on different quantum platforms, along with foundational hardware, software, and experimental techniques required to support operational quantum systems. 

Trainees complete rotations at ARLIS, University of Maryland laboratories, and partner organizations, where they gain experience configuring, operating, troubleshooting, and evaluating quantum technologies. These rotations also provide opportunities to strengthen professional development, including communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. 

Throughout the program, trainees progress through sequenced training pathways, earning employer-recognized credentials including digital badges that document demonstrated technical and professional skills.

Together, these experiences prepare the program participants for immediate contributions within Maryland's quantum workforce across industry, government, and national security organizations.

ARLIS partner organizations operate within secure environments requiring cleared personnel. 

To help address this workforce need, eligible NEXUS trainees are sponsored by ARLIS for SECRET or TOP SECRET security clearances as appropriate, and provided training on secure operations and mission-focused work environments. 

On completion, program participants are prepared to contribute within organizations supporting defense, intelligence, federal, and national security missions. 

Every day in NEXUS blends technical work, professional development, and collaboration. Nexus trainees work with quantum hardware and control systems, configure laboratory equipment, run experiments, collect and interpret data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and contribute to applied projects alongside small teams of other industry professionals.  

Outside the laboratory, program participants engage in workshops, seminars, and mentoring sessions that connect them with experts across Maryland’s quantum community. Throughout the program, they build employer-recognized training, expand their professional networks, and gain experience working in mission-focused environments that support government, industry, and national security.

For program participants, NEXUS produces workforce‑ready cleared quantum professionals with real‑world experience and strong connections to potential employers. In addition to technical expertise, trainees build professional networks across academia, industry, government, and national security organizations. Eligible NEXUS trainees also receive preparation for work in secure environments through security clearance pathways, positioning them for careers supporting Maryland's growing quantum ecosystem.

NEXUS provides employers with access to a pipeline of pre-vetted, workforce-ready technical professionals trained on relevant quantum platforms and prepared to contribute in applied laboratory and operational environments. Through ARLIS's employer-driven training model, trainees develop the technical, professional, and mission-focused experience needed to reduce onboarding time and accelerate workforce readiness.

By partnering with NEXUS, organizations also strengthen their connections to ARLIS, the University of Maryland, and Maryland's broader quantum ecosystem, helping shape the next generation of quantum talent while building a sustainable workforce pipeline.