In this article, we will know that, Fermilab celebrates Chicago students graduating from its SMQ Saturday Morning Quantum program, preparing the next generation of scientists in quantum technology fields.
The South Shore community’s geography provided the setting for an important turning point in American science. A new class of high school students received their diplomas from the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory’s (Fermilab) flagship program at the Olive Harvey College Learning Center. The program, which aims to expose young minds to the opportunities and complexity of quantum information science and technology, celebrated its second graduation with this ceremony.
Fermilab is making a deliberate effort to develop the next generation of scientists and engineers through the Saturday Morning Quantum program. The initiative bridges the gap between theoretical classroom learning and practical scientific application by putting Chicago-area high school students in direct contact with the laboratory’s leading quantum researchers. The graduating class this year showed remarkable commitment to becoming experts in an area that is actively influencing the direction of international technology.
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A Ceremony of Achievement and Community Support
The graduation ceremony was attended by famous scientists, academics, and government leaders, emphasizing workforce development in technology development. Alderman Peter Chico, Olive Harvey College VP of Academic Affairs Brandon Nichols, and Chicago’s Deputy Director of Economic Development Tom Anderson attended. Fermilab director Norbert Holtkamp attended, demonstrating the lab’s community involvement and teaching.
Students’ accomplishments were honored. 37 students attended eight of 10 demanding Saturday sessions and won participation certificates. The 15 students who received perfect attendance certificates and, perhaps most importantly, the 28 students who successfully earned college credit for their work further demonstrated the program’s demanding nature. These credits give students who want to pursue STEM careers in college a head start.
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Beyond the Fundamentals Curriculum
More than just lectures, the SMQ curriculum provides a 10-week in-depth investigation of current physics’ basic ideas. The Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center and Fermilab’s Office of Education and Public Engagement administer the program, which covers many fundamental areas. Students examined complexity:
- Quantum Mechanics: Quantum mechanics is the study of subatomic principles.
- Superconducting Technologies: Quantum devices require knowledge of how non-resistive materials conduct electricity.
- Quantum Computing and Sensing: Quantum computing and sensing is the study of how quantum bits, or qubits, can solve issues that are beyond the capabilities of traditional computers.
- Cryogenic Systems: Studying the extremely cold conditions needed to maintain the stability and functionality of quantum systems is known as cryogenic systems.
In addition to technical lectures, the curriculum gave students an insight into the working world of science. Partners in the quantum industry took part in workshops to talk about the several options for research and development as well as to share their own professional routes. Additionally, attendees had the unique chance to explore Fermilab’s top-notch facilities, such as the SQMS Center, where they witnessed directly the creation of cutting-edge quantum platforms.
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The Significance of the Asterisk: Access and Equity
The program’s moniker, SMQ, is what makes it special. The asterisk is a purposeful symbol for “more,” signifying Fermilab’s objective to increase students’ access to advanced scientific education throughout the whole city of Chicago. To guarantee the “next generation” of workers is diverse and inclusive, Fermilab is extending these services to adjacent communities like the South Shore.
Holtkamp said, “We are proud of the role that Fermilab and our staff play in educating and inspiring students about the potential of quantum science.” He said the project builds a workforce “the nation, and our world, will rely on in the future” rather than local education.
SQMS Center director and CTO Anna Grassellino says talent growth is essential. She said, “We are preparing a new generation of quantum scientists to make a significant contribution to technologies that will have a widespread impact on society, industry, and science through this program.”
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A Lasting Legacy and Future Outlook
The Fermilab Saturday Morning Physics quantum physics model is improved by SMQ. Chicago’s first school-based quantum scientific outreach program survived in 2026 after starting in June 2025. Fermilab’s growth shows its dedication to US innovation and discovery.
Student-friendly and academically interesting curriculum. One student said, “There were no dumb questions in class,” praising the program’s quantum computing understanding and lecturers’ approachability.
Fermilab leads particle physics and accelerator research, and programs like SMQ prepare the next generation of thinkers to solve matter, energy, space, and time problems. Quantum science leadership and human resources investment put Fermilab at the forefront of science and community development.
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