Quantum Computing in Texas: Driving Innovation and Empowering Energy with Pasqal

On October 1st at The Ion in Houston, FACC Texas partnered with Pasqal, a European leader in quantum computing, to successfully host a half-day event showcasing groundbreaking innovations for the energy industry. 

From securing expert speakers to managing logistics and engaging with the Houston ecosystem, FACC Texas was involved in every step of the project.
FACC Texas helps its members thrive in Houston by providing visibility and generating business opportunities. Supporting Pasqal’s entry into the Energy Capital of the U.S., following its major partnerships with Aramco and IBM, was a natural next step.

This event is paving the way for Houston to position itself as a global hub for quantum innovation in energy.

Bringing Experts as Speakers: A Win-Win for Pasqal and Networking Opportunities for Speakers

FACC Texas leveraged its extensive U.S. network to secure many speakers, including experts from NASA, BCG, Rice University, The Ion, and Halliburton Labs. This presented a great opportunity for Pasqal to network with these speakers and attract high-quality attendees.

The event kicked off with an introduction from our MC, Emmanuel Ricolfi—Managing Director and Partner at BCG—followed by a few words from Brad Burke, VP, about Rice University’s vision for innovation in Houston.

Wasiq Bokhari, Chairman of Pasqal, began the discussion with a keynote that painted a broad picture of quantum computing and how its applications can be a game-changer for the energy industry. Christophe Jurczak, Partner at the investment fund Quantonation, helped us navigate the challenges of investing in quantum technologies.

Then, panelists from NVIDIA, NASA, Rice University, and Sia Partners—moderated by BCG—discussed the evolution of quantum computing and shared their visions for the future.

After a networking break, Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO of Pasqal, outlined Pasqal’s vision for the future, including how they aim to use quantum computing to solve real-world problems and build a center of excellence in quantum technology in Houston. Next, a panel moderated by Pasqal and composed of representatives from Halliburton Labs, Woodside Energy, BP, and Strangeworks shared their views on how quantum could disrupt the industry.

Before concluding remarks by Georges-Olivier Reymond, Will Zeng, CEO of Unitary Fund—a non-profit organization—shared his thoughts on how to build a thriving quantum computing ecosystem.

Extensive Network for Achieving Business Goals and Gaining Visibility

The FACC Texas brought together an audience of industry leaders and curious minds, eager to learn about the benefits of quantum computing for business. The event encouraged meaningful discussions and genuine connections during the networking sessions. 

Our outreach strategy for this event included a targeted approach: leveraging our 13,000-strong newsletter, engaging our community of qualified business members, and sending dedicated invitations. We also conducted focused prospecting efforts and partnered with key stakeholders to amplify the event’s visibility. Our deep knowledge of the local ecosystem allowed us to connect with the right professionals and create a space for impactful exchanges.

Streamlined Logistics and Coordination for a Smooth Event Organization

As a center of innovation, we supported Pasqal by securing a prime venue at The Ion and coordinating essential services, including catering, videography, photography, and printing materials, while ensuring a warm welcome for guests. We maintained weekly communication with our member to effectively organize and coordinate all aspects of the event.

We loved collaborating with Pasqal on this event, and it sets the stage for future opportunities to expand Pasqal’s presence in Houston and Texas. As Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO of Pasqal, stated “Pasqal wants to build a Quantum center of excellence in Texas, for the energy sector” and the FACC Texas is there to help.

More about the event: 

A Half-Day of Keynotes and Panels with Leaders to Explore the Impact of Quantum Computing on Energy.

Speaker Lineup

  • Brad Burke – Ion Houston, Rice University
  • Wasiq Bokhari – Pasqal
  • Georges-Olivier Reymond – Pasqal
  • Michael Warren – Pasqal
  • Christophe Jurczak – Quantonation
  • Reynaldo Gomez – NVIDIA
  • Tirthak Patel – Rice University
  • Davide Venturelli – NASA
  • Emmanuel Ricolfi – Boston Consulting Group
  • Shichen Lian – Boston Consulting Group
  • William Hurley – Strangeworks
  • Larry Bowden – Chevron Corporation
  • Qinghua Wang – Halliburton Labs
  • Clena Abuan – BP
  • Will Zeng – Unitary Fund
  • Sean Jump – Sia Partners

Sessions

  • Investing in the quantum future: state of play and way forward for quantum venture capital
  • Quantum Global Perspectives
  • Quantum for Energy
  • Pasqal’s Ambitions on a sustainable and quantum-powered future
  • QC Ecosystem Development

 

More about Pasqal

FACC

  • Tristan Sakr
  • Constance Bost

Interested in organizing an event? We can help!
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