Like most tech sectors, quantum computing has a skills shortage.

According to a September 2022 report by the World Economic Forum (WEF), more than half of quantum computer companies are currently hiring.

This poses a challenge for the industry. Governments and businesses are funnelling tens of billions of dollars into quantum computing, and yet progress in the industry will remain elusive unless the industry can recruit the people to make that happen.

One of the issues is that the sector typically requires academic specializations -quantum physics, for example -and PhDs, setting a high barrier to entry straight out of the gate.

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But not all jobs in quantum computing require a PhD-level education in quantum theory, advanced mathematics or computer sciences. In fact, many roles require traditional hardware and software skills -meaning tech specialists might find they need minimal or no retraining for a career in quantum computing.

As mass layoffs create turmoil at Big Tech, British quantum computing startup Universal Quantum believes now is the ideal time for technology professionals to transfer their skills to the burgeoning quantum sector.

"The good news is, we don't need strange, mysterious quantum physicists all cross the board," says professor Winfried Hensinger, co-founder and chief scientist at Universal Quantum.

Also: What is quantum computing? Everything you need to know about the strange world of quantum computers

Universal Quantum is on a recruitment drive after recently securing