Quantum Computing: Unlocking the Future with SAS and Bill Wisotsky
The world of quantum computing is an exciting frontier, but how do companies navigate this complex landscape? Bill Wisotsky, the Principal Quantum Systems Architect at SAS, joins Yuval to discuss a unique approach to quantum and analytics, offering a fascinating insight into the potential of this technology.
Bill's journey into quantum began with a personal interest in quantum physics during his graduate studies in behavioral neuroscience. This curiosity led him down a rabbit hole, and when the pandemic hit, he had the time to explore quantum computing further. He discovered its potential in areas like optimization and quantum machine learning, which aligned perfectly with SAS's expertise.
But here's where it gets interesting: Bill's initiative was a bottom-up approach. He navigated the company, presenting his ideas and proofs of concept until he found a receptive audience in the Solutions Factory. Eventually, the chief technology officer took notice, and a dedicated quantum team was formed.
A key challenge arises: How do you convince a company to invest in quantum when you don't have a PhD in physics? Bill's advice is to be persistent, learn the topics, and speak with authority. He emphasizes that you don't need a physics degree to understand quantum computing, and his experience is a testament to that.
One of the most intriguing projects Bill discusses is the Kidney Exchange Project, where quantum computing was used to optimize donor-recipient pairs. This project demonstrated the power of quantum, reducing a problem that took hours to solve classically to just 30 seconds in a hybrid quantum-classical approach.
Bill defines 'quantum advantage' pragmatically, focusing on customer benefits. It's not just about speed but also the expressivity of quantum models and their ability to handle complex data. He highlights the potential for quantum to enhance machine learning models and the advantages seen in quantum reservoir computing and support vector machines.
A controversial topic emerges: Can quantum computing always provide the optimal solution? Bill acknowledges that it depends on the customer's needs. In some cases, a 100% optimal solution is required, while in others, speed is more important. The hybrid approach, combining quantum and classical methods, becomes crucial in proving optimality.
The conversation delves into the challenges of working with quantum, which Bill likens to the event horizon of a black hole. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the problem classically first and then identifying areas where quantum can help. This approach ensures that quantum becomes just another tool in the toolkit, offering additional options for problem-solving.
When asked about his favorite quantum computer, Bill diplomatically avoids choosing, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of various modalities like neutral atoms, trapped ions, photonics, and superconducting. He emphasizes the importance of a collaborative relationship with vendors, valuing engagement and ease of working together.
A thought-provoking question arises: What has Bill learned about quantum in the past year? He reveals that the biggest takeaway is the rapid progress towards error-corrected qubits and large-scale quantum computers. He also mentions the potential for quantum advantage without massive quantum computers, requiring a bit of imagination.
The interview concludes with a hypothetical dinner invitation to a quantum great, with Bill choosing Roger Penrose. He finds Penrose's Orchestrated Objective Reduction theory intriguing, connecting quantum superpositions and entanglements in the nervous system to consciousness. This choice reflects Bill's background in behavioral neuroscience and his passion for the subject.
In summary, Bill Wisotsky's journey at SAS showcases the power of initiative, persistence, and a deep understanding of both quantum and classical computing. His work is a testament to the potential of quantum computing and its ability to revolutionize various industries. But the question remains: How will other companies follow in SAS's footsteps, and what new frontiers will quantum computing unlock next?
