Imagine a computer that doesn’t operate using 0s and 1s, but rather using micro-scale phenomena found in nature itself. A machine capable of performing calculations that today’s classical computers cannot handle. That sounds like science fiction, but nothing could be further from the truth. On Advanced Engineering, Eric Michiels explains how quantum computing will drive innovation today and in the future.
Eric is a Quantum Technical Ambassador at IBM and is certified to deliver demos, lectures, workshops and consultancy on this groundbreaking technology. He maintains close ties with the research community and helps to map out strategies for the practical roll-out of quantum computing.
During his keynote “Quantum Computing, from Toy Examples to Real Advantage”, Eric takes engineers, IT professionals and business leaders from abstract concepts to concrete applications. “You can overwhelm people with the concept of quantum computing in under five minutes. But I explain it in a way that’s easy to grasp – using use cases that are already having an impact today – so that it immediately becomes clear what this technology can mean for your business.”
What is quantum computing?
A quantum computer does not work like a classical computer, which is based on binary computation using 0s and 1s. Instead, it utilises quantum-level phenomena such as superposition and entanglement, whereby computations take place in a fundamentally different way: probabilistic rather than deterministic.
“Quantum computing is based on a fundamentally different form of hardware. This new way of computing makes it possible to solve extremely complex problems that classical computers cannot handle today,” explains Eric. “Think of logistics optimisation, chemical reactions or models for financial decisions, each in a challenging context.”
“Quantum computing makes it possible to solve extremely complex problems that classical computers cannot handle today.”
Important to note: quantum computers do not replace classical computers. “A bank transfer or your daily Excel calculation will still run on a classical computer,” says Eric. “But complex problems, such as how to optimally distribute 100,000 products across 1,000 shops using 100 lorries from 20 different depots – taking into account strikes, technical breakdowns and out-of-stock situations – that is where quantum computers have the potential to excel.”
From early adopters to practical applications
Today, companies can already access IBM’s quantum computers via the cloud, or have them installed on-site. Early adopters are developing applications across a wide range of sectors.
“In the automotive sector, they are already being used in paint shops to optimise the use of materials. In aviation, better schedules for landing aircraft and their impact on catering, maintenance teams and passenger flows can be calculated. In the financial sector, risk models can be built with greater accuracy, fraud predictions can be made based on more complex datasets, and investment portfolios can be optimally constructed. And batteries can be designed with higher energy density, range and reliability.”
“The beauty of quantum computing is that it not only speeds up business processes, but also provides insights that we were previously unable to generate,” adds Eric.
How do you get started with quantum computing?
During his keynote, Eric also explains how companies can roll out their own quantum strategy. “It’s about finding the right balance between classical and quantum computing: which calculations do you run where, and which problems do you translate into quantum algorithms?” He emphasises that it is not just about technology, but also about correctly translating business problems into quantum problems.
His message to companies: “Start raising awareness today, appoint a quantum champion and invest time in exploring the potential. Those who get on board early can not only benefit from new algorithms, but also contribute to the evolution of the quantum systems themselves. That’s how you build a lead that will be difficult to catch up with later.”
The future of quantum computing in Belgium and Europe
Although IBM is investing in quantum research worldwide, Eric emphasises that Belgium has a unique opportunity. “We have the talent, but we are still investing too little in terms of capital and policy to really make a breakthrough. Other countries such as the Netherlands, France, Germany, China and the US are investing billions. If we don’t get on board now, we will fall behind in a technology that will be crucial over the next ten years.”
“By around 2029, we will see the greatest benefits in chemistry, optimisation, simulation, machine learning and AI.”
According to Eric, the major breakthrough in quantum computing won’t be too far off either. IBM expects a tipping point around 2029, when quantum computers will be fully error-corrected and therefore reliable. “That is when we will see the greatest benefits in chemistry, optimisation, simulation, machine learning and AI. But even today, companies can already take small steps that make a significant difference and deliver a competitive advantage in the future.”
Why you shouldn’t miss this keynote
Eric Michiels’ talk at Advanced Engineering combines an overview of quantum technology with concrete business cases. Visitors will receive an introduction that is technically detailed enough for engineers, whilst also offering strategic insights for C-level executives.
“My aim is to spark people’s curiosity, inspire them to embark on their own quantum journey, and perhaps even encourage them to appoint a quantum champion within their organisation. That way, they can start exploring today and prepare for the real quantum revolution of tomorrow,” he concludes.
Quantum computing: from theoretical examples to practical benefits
Wednesday 6 May
10.30am – 11.00am
Main stage
