Chattanooga Picks 23 Teachers for Quantum Computing Camp

The Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative (CQC) has named 23 educators from 16 local schools to its first QCaMP cohort, a summer professional development program built around quantum computing, physics, and mathematics. Sandia National Laboratories designed the curriculum and leads instruction as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Quantum Systems Accelerator. Chattanooga is one of just 20 sites across the country, and one of two in Tennessee, selected to host the program.

What QCaMP Actually Looks Like for Teachers

QCaMP stands for Quantum Computing, Mathematics and Physics Camp. The program gives K-12 teachers hands-on training in quantum concepts so they can fold those ideas into their own classrooms. Participants will work directly with Sandia researchers and industry professionals during sessions hosted in Chattanooga this summer. The participating schools range from Red Bank Elementary to Brainerd High School to the University High at UTC, which covers a wide spread of grade levels and subjects.

A National Science Foundation planning grant awarded to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga funds the initiative. CQC operates as a subawardee, handling coordination and workforce engagement on the ground. Though applicants came from a variety of backgrounds, organizers prioritized active K-12 teachers within commuting distance of Chattanooga. This decision was deliberate. The program depends on participants collaborating in person and testing ideas in their own classrooms during the course.

Why a Mid-Size Tennessee City Is Betting on Quantum Education

Chattanooga has been building a quantum ecosystem for several years, and QCaMP fits into that larger push. Charlie Brock, CEO of CQC, said the program’s value goes beyond content. He pointed to the teachers’ willingness to step into unfamiliar territory and connect it to their students’ futures.

“Quantum technology is advancing quickly, and programs like QCaMP help create opportunities for educators to engage with these ideas early. (…) What’s exciting is not just the content itself, but the willingness of these teachers to explore something new and think about how it connects to students’ futures.”

Lillian Brunacini, QCaMP’s 2026 Program Manager at Sandia, noted that Chattanooga’s applicant pool showed unusually strong engagement for a first-year site.

“Chattanooga came in strong for its first year. (…) We saw real enthusiasm from educators who are eager to learn, collaborate, and think creatively about how quantum concepts can be introduced in accessible ways for students. That level of engagement says a lot about the momentum already building in the region.”

Hamilton County Schools’ Chief Academic Officer Blake Freeman framed participation as part of the district’s investment in teacher development, with an eye toward preparing students for careers that don’t fully exist yet.

“Supporting educators with access to high-quality professional development is a reflection of Hamilton County Schools’ commitment to investing in educator learning. (…) QCaMP provides our educators with the opportunity to engage with innovative ideas and strategies that foster engaging learning environments and prepare students to be life-ready after graduation.”

The full list of participating schools includes Chattanooga Christian School, Girls Preparatory School, Collegedale Academy, McMinn County High School, and several others. More details are available at ChattanoogaQuantum.com.