Callahan Presents on Quantum Computing and US Infrastructure

Brian Callahan '14M, Ph.D., specialist professor in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, presented on quantum computing and U.S. infrastructure at the InfraGard NJ 2026 Annual Industry Update.

The annual event covered threats and trends shaping the nation's security landscape and included experts from federal agencies such as the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as other government and private sector experts.

In his presentation, "Quantum Computing and U.S. Critical Infrastructure," Callahan explained that quantum computers are a technology that work differently from computers people use every day, including laptops, desktops, and cell phones.

Callahan shared that this technology could eventually threaten the digital protections used to keep sensitive information secure. He further explained that quantum computers could one day break some of this encryption and warned this threat is not something organizations can simply wait to address, as information is already being collected from hospitals, banks, and other critical infrastructure.

However, Callahan's speech was not entirely about the potential risks. He also discussed ways quantum technology could eventually help with critical infrastructure like making power grids more efficient, finding problems in the electrical systems, developing better batteries, improving water treatment, and detecting very small leaks in water and gas systems.

InfraGard is public and private sector alliance between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and members of the private sector for the protection of U.S. critical infrastructure. It provides education, information sharing, networking opportunities, and workshops on emerging technologies and threats.