​Summary:

​Quantum technology is moving out of the physics lab and into national strategy. Governments around the world are spending billions on quantum computing, sensing, and networking, and a working, cryptographically relevant quantum computer would break the public-key encryption that secures many of today's digital systems. But what exactly is a quantum computer, how close are we to useful machines, and what should policymakers actually be doing about it?

​This talk opens with a plain-language tour of how quantum systems work: what qubits, superposition, and entanglement mean in practice; the leading hardware approaches; and the key technical challenges. Then, Vetri will discuss four policy areas where government choices will shape the outcome: scientific research, post-quantum cryptography and cybersecurity, international efforts, and manufacturing.

​Bio:

​Vetri Velan, Ph.D. is an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science and Technology Policy Fellow (STPF) in the Department of Energy Office of Strategy and Technology Roadmaps, which coordinates activities relating to critical and emerging technologies, including AI, quantum, biotech, and semiconductors. He previously served as a fellow in the office of Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) where he worked on important policy challenges, including manufacturing, biotech, quantum, economic competitiveness, and small business issues. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of California, Berkeley.

​About the DC Industrial Policy Salon

​The DC Industrial Policy Salon was started by Nicholas Wagner, Founder of Learning Journey AI, in 2026. It convenes leading experts and policymakers to discuss issues of science, technology, and industrial production in Washington, DC. To learn more about our events, please visit https://dcips.net.