Inside Quantum Internships at IBM with Experiences from the Frontlines

Insider Brief

• IBM Quantum provides a dynamic environment for aspiring quantum computing experts, as shared by interns Ari Noori and Abigail McClain Gomez in an IBM Crosstalk podcast.
• Noori, now a full-time engineer, highlighted the importance of networking and personal connections in securing opportunities, while McClain Gomez emphasized collaboration with IBM’s research scientists.
• Both interns agreed that their experiences at IBM have been pivotal in shaping their career paths in quantum computing, offering technical skills and career clarity.

IBM’s Quantum division is not only at the cutting edge of technology but also provides a fertile ground for the next generation of quantum computing experts. Two interns, Ari Noori, now a full-time Quantum Hardware Engineer, and Abigail McClain Gomez, a current Quantum Research Intern, recently gave their opinion in an episode of IBM’s Crosstalk podcast on what it’s like to work at the company in the fast-evolving field of quantum computing.

Ari Noori’s journey at IBM began during his undergraduate studies, where he first encountered quantum computing in a high school physics class. 

“I got very excited about quantum computing because it seemed like it would have a great impact on the world eventually,” Noori recalled. This excitement led him to seek out an internship at IBM, where he knew he would be working with some of the best minds in the field. “I knew that one, the people there would be incredible and I could learn a lot from them, but two, it would be a monumental step in trying to build my career in the quantum space,” he continued.

Noori’s experience gives credence to the importance of networking and being proactive. His initial connection at a university career fair eventually led to a full-time position. 

“I think networking and trying to talk to somebody one-on-one or at least face-to-face is really key here,” he advised, while stressing the value of personal interactions in securing opportunities.

Abigail McClain Gomez, currently pursuing her PhD at Harvard, mirrored Noori’s thoughts on the importance of making connections and gaining practical experience. 

“My advice for networking would be to kind of lean on the network you already have and then your network just naturally grows from there,” she suggested. McClain Gomez also values the opportunity to collaborate with IBM’s research scientists. “I meet with six or seven different research scientists every week. It’s been great,” she said, underlining the collaborative environment at IBM.

Both Noori and McClain Gomez agree that their time at IBM has been instrumental in shaping their career paths. 

“I think it is solidifying my leaning towards industry,” McClain Gomez reflected on her internship experience, which has given her a clearer sense of direction as she approaches the end of her PhD program.

For anyone considering a future in quantum computing, these words from Noori and McClain Gomez provide a glimpse into the dynamic and supportive environment that IBM Quantum offers. Their experiences demonstrate how internships can serve as a critical stepping stone, providing not only technical skills but also invaluable industry connections and career clarity.

Featured image: Credit: IBM