Meet Ilana Wisby, the CEO of OQC. With a diverse background spanning physics, music, and entrepreneurship, Ilana’s journey is as multifaceted as the quantum technologies she pioneers. From a young age, Ilana’s curiosity for science and technology was nurtured by her parents, leading her to pursue both physics and music in her undergraduate studies. However, it was during her PhD in quantum technology that Ilana found her true passion, exploring the intersection of theoretical physics and experimental work.

After completing her PhD, she ventured into the world of start-ups, drawn by the fast-paced environment and multidisciplinary nature of deep tech ventures. Working across various roles, from data science to product management, she gained invaluable experience in building relationships and leading teams. Her fascination with quantum technology persisted, ultimately leading her to join OQC as its founding CEO in 2017.

As CEO of OQC, Ilana’s role has evolved alongside the company’s growth, from managing day-to-day operations to setting long-term strategy. She deeply believes in the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive team, where everyone’s contributions are valued.

Ilana sat down with Tushna Commissariat about her journey, deep tech, and quantum technologies of the future. Ilana’s parting advices is to aspire professionals to cultivate curiosity, invest in relationships, and develop emotional intelligence.