Quantum Combinatorial Optimization (Quantum Computing RTP Meetup)

In this session, Laird Williams will briefly introduce quantum combinatorial optimization and its applications and then move into quantum computing approaches to solving these types of problems. Emphasis will be placed on the Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA), with a brief look at quantum annealing along the way. The talk will feature code examples in Python with IBM’s Qiskit, its optimization and algorithm community spin-off projects, and a little of D-Wave’s Ocean SDK. The technical part will conclude with a quick survey of other, more advanced approaches. Laird will also come armed with some thoughts on learning QC on your own, including thoughts on approach and available resources. --------- Laird Williams is a 40 year veteran of software engineering and IT. His "day job" is as a solutions architect for a mid-sized beltway bandit. His widely varied background, however, includes early work in advanced computing, including rules-based systems, early neural networks, genetic algorithms, and computer models of diagnostic problem solving. He became curious about quantum computing and began investigating as a side project two years ago. He has written numerous small quantum programs, running them both on simulators and on real quantum hardware. He is currently engaged in study of advanced quantum algorithms and reformulating an optimization model of abductive inference so it might be solved efficiently on a quantum computer. He holds a MSCS from the University of Tennessee and IBM’s “Certified Quantum Computation using Qiskit v2.X Developer – Associate” certification, but he is not a member of the QC academic research community nor is he employed in the industry in any way. He is a competent dilatant who is happy to share what he has learned and tips for navigating this fascinating subject on one’s own. ******************************* Suggested Contribution: $10 Your contribution helps cover event costs. If you’re able to give more, you’ll help us support students and others who may not be in a position to pay right now. ➡️ Register here: https://swipesimple.com/links/lnk_bf095f22bb6b25e5a7398f067e5b0203 Everyone is welcome—pay what you can. 📅 Meetups are now being scheduled for 2026. Stay tuned for upcoming topics, speakers, and opportunities to connect. ******************************* Quantum Computing RTP is a growing community of researchers, technologists, and quantum-curious professionals exploring the science, systems, and real-world impact of quantum computing. Based in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, we host in-person and online events featuring invited speakers, expert panels, and networking sessions that bring clarity to breakthroughs and context to quantum computing. Whether you're advancing the field, building practical applications, or just getting started, you’ll find knowledge, conversation, and community here. Event: Beverage, networking, and a featured speaker - $10 registration fee to cover venue, and platform costs. RSVP on Meetup does not reserve your spot. ➡️ Register here: https://swipesimple.com/links/lnk_bf095f22bb6b25e5a7398f067e5b0203 Agenda : - 5:30pm - 5:50pm - Registration & Networking - 5:50pm - 7:00pm - Presentation, Q&A - 7:00pm - 7:30pm - Networking Note - We may photograph the audience at this meeting which will appear on our public-facing Meet-Up page. Your attendance is confirmation of your compliance to be photographed. Send your suggestions for future topics. Your group needs your input!