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San Marcos Today
By the People, for the People
UCLA Launches SoCal Quantum Alliance to Anchor Regional Innovation
New coalition aims to drive quantum research, workforce development, and industry scaling in Southern California.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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UCLA has announced the formation of the SoCal Quantum Alliance (SQA), a coalition of leading universities, research institutions, and industry partners in Southern California focused on advancing quantum technology. The alliance includes founding members such as Caltech, USC, JPL, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, and Cal State San Marcos, as well as companies like Boeing, HRL Laboratories, and IBM.
Why it matters
The SQA is designed to position Southern California as a hub for quantum innovation, bringing together top academic and industry players to accelerate research, develop a skilled quantum workforce, and help scale quantum technologies for real-world applications. This aligns with broader efforts to establish regional innovation clusters and make California a global leader in emerging tech.
The details
The SQA will coordinate quantum research, education, and commercialization efforts across its member institutions and companies. Key focus areas include quantum computing, sensing, communications, and materials. The alliance will also work to attract government and private funding, as well as recruit and train quantum scientists and engineers to meet growing industry demand.
- The SQA was announced on February 14, 2026.
The players
UCLA
The University of California, Los Angeles, which is leading the formation of the SoCal Quantum Alliance.
Caltech
The California Institute of Technology, a founding member of the SQA.
USC
The University of Southern California, a founding member of the SQA.
JPL
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a founding member of the SQA.
Boeing
An industry partner and founding member of the SQA.
What they’re saying
“The SoCal Quantum Alliance will help us harness the incredible quantum research and talent in our region to drive real-world innovation and economic growth.”
— Michael Regan, Chancellor, UCLA (UCLA Newsroom)
What’s next
The SQA plans to hold its inaugural summit in June 2026 to outline its strategic priorities and initiatives for the coming years.
The takeaway
By bringing together top universities, research labs, and industry leaders, the SoCal Quantum Alliance positions Southern California as a premier destination for quantum technology development and commercialization, further cementing the region's reputation as a global innovation hub.
