This series interview with John Barnes, Founder CEO of Entangled Positions and UK President of OneQuantum, explores the evolving landscape of the quantum workforce through the lens of community, innovation, and personal leadership. Drawing on his unique journey from technology recruitment to quantum ecosystem builder, John shares candid insights on the importance of connection, diversity, resilience, and ethical progress in shaping the future of quantum technology.

John offers a masterclass in building and leading a global quantum workforce. Through stories, metaphors, and practical wisdom, he reveals how community, diversity, and ethical leadership are as essential to quantum innovation as technical expertise. This episode is a candid exploration of what it means to orchestrate not just careers, but the health and future of an entire field, making it essential listening for anyone interested in the human side of scientific progress.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Individuality

• John’s recruitment philosophy centers on treating every person as an individual, focusing on their aspirations and motivations rather than demographic categories.

• He is critical of rigid diversity quotas, advocating instead for authentic inclusion and the removal of systemic barriers.

• His work naturally results in diverse placements by focusing on opportunity and removing obstacles, not by enforcing targets.

Philosophy and Vision

• John admires figures like Michael Faraday for their humble beginnings and transformative impact.

• He believes quantum should serve the broader good—not just humanity, but all of life—advocating for a holistic and ambitious vision.

• His “Woodstock moment” for quantum is not a single event, but the ongoing journey of building an inclusive, ethical, and innovative ecosystem.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

• John warns against echo chambers in academia and politics, stressing the importance of challenging prevailing opinions and maintaining authentic dialogue.

• He discusses the pitfalls of well-intentioned but rigid inclusion policies, calling for nuanced, long-term solutions that focus on genuine opportunity and individual merit.

• Quantum, as a young field, has the chance to set new standards for ethics, collaboration, and community health.

Follow John on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/entangled/

Check his company here https://eptalent.tech/

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The disclaimer: All chats at entangled health are a co-creation between the guest and myself, and not an official statement from our industries. Guests are here in a personal capacity, as am I, so everything we share is just our own take, not the official view of any company nor of my employer or any other organization.