2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Quantum technologies have recently been up and coming as one of tomorrow’s most important areas in science. While quantum science is typically only required for physics majors, it is more and more becoming the case that engineers from multiple disciplines will have to study quantum concepts as well. Further, major world powers have recognized the importance of quantum technologies via publications on quantum policy or strategy. Such publications envision a large workforce that has yet to come to fruition. Thus, engineering education has space to step in and help create the workforce envisioned via efforts like research on learning or approaches to building connections with industry. This paper contributes to the latter. During summer 2024, we hosted a two-day quantum summer school for undergraduates. This summer school included introductory level talks on quantum concepts, talks showing the connections between quantum concepts and the industry, and sessions showcasing ways to get involved with the quantum industry or research. 27 undergraduates attended. We wanted to know: what kinds of motivations drove them to attend, did this summer school change their motivations or future career path, and what talks or activities did they enjoy most and least. To answer these questions, we distributed a survey after the summer school was over; all 27 responded, though only 25 filled out the survey in full. Through this survey, we found students displaying a mix of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, of which the strength of various aspects of motivation changed after having attended the summer school. Additionally, we found that there was a more positive response towards presentations that explained concepts simply, rather than interest or motivation being sparked from not knowing anything being discussed. These results can help to inform the design of future programs, such that causing interest in learning quantum or getting involved in industry can be maximized.