
Veterans in Quantum Computing: A Military-to-Civilian Pathway into Quantum-Tech Careers
Introduction Quantum technology is shifting from physics‑lab curiosity to strategic capability. London and Oxford spin‑outs have already attracted £1.4 billion in private investment (UK Quantum Landscape 2024), and HM Treasury’s £2.5 billion National Quantum Strategy (2024‑2034) aims to create 80,000 new jobs by 2030 across computing, sensing, and communications. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) treats quantum supremacy as a national‑security imperative—funding quantum‑safe cryptography pilots and battlefield quantum‑sensing via Dstl and the Defence Quantum Technologies Centre (DQTC). For veterans, quantum shouldn’t feel alien. Whether maintaining chilled infrared sensors, securing cryptographic keys, or troubleshooting avionics at 3 a.m., you have cultivated the rigour, resilience, and security clearance that quantum employers crave. This guide shows how to translate military experience into quantum‑computing careers, leverage MoD transition programmes, and land roles building tomorrow’s most powerful machines. Quick Win: Check our live board for Quantum Software Engineer roles to see who’s hiring today.