The Spark Photonics Foundation recently concluded its SparkEd: Photonics & Semiconductor Education professional development program, a groundbreaking initiative that brought together over 50 educators across the United States to explore cutting-edge technologies in photonics, semiconductors, and quantum science.
Among the highlights of the program was the participation of Paulo Sergio Rufino Henrique, scientist at the CTIF Global Capsule Foundation (CGC), Commissioning Editor at River Publishers, and Editor-in-Chief of the Quantum Information Technology Journal. Paulo delivered a 20-minute lecture titled “A QUANTA STORY – A New Frontier for STEM Innovation and Education in the Quantum Reality”, which earned the highest rating from attendees and left a lasting impression on educators.
Impact by the Numbers
Paulo’s lecture, delivered as part of the module Demystifying Quantum with the Experts, received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5, surpassing the overall module average of 4.17. Even more impressive, educators reported a 77.4% increase in their understanding of “Quantum Technology”—from an average of 1.741 before the program to 3.088 after—largely due to Paulo’s ability to make complex topics engaging and accessible.
Educators’ Voices: What They Said
Feedback from U.S. professors and educators underscored the impact of Paulo’s lecture:
“I really enjoyed the way Mr. Henrique described the Big Bang using his Lego brick visualization. I will take this idea and try to incorporate it into my lessons.”
“The depth of his knowledge in quantum mechanics and QIS was astounding.”
“I liked how he connected classical mechanics thinkers like Newton and Maxwell to the quantum world and then to modern careers. A great example of systems thinking.”
“Paulo’s examples of applied quantum science showed accessibility—not limiting it to physics or math but expanding to finance, energy, biology, medicine, and cryptology.”
“He made complex scientific ideas accessible using creative analogies, diverse role models, and real-world impacts.”
“I loved all the career opportunities Paulo talked about—this will be very applicable to so many of our students.”
“His presentation on using quantum tech in healthcare stood out to me.”
Making Quantum Accessible
From explaining the Big Bang with Lego bricks to connecting classical physics with quantum breakthroughs, Paulo’s teaching style emphasized accessibility, creativity, and real-world relevance. His approach not only deepened educators’ knowledge but also provided them with classroom-ready tools to inspire the next generation of students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Acknowledgements
A special thanks goes to Kristen Outler, Educational Development Manager at the Spark Photonics Foundation, who invited Paulo to deliver this lecture after attending his talk at Princeton University last March. Paulo also extends his gratitude to Vanessa J. Mahoney, M.Ed., Educational Outreach Manager at Spark, for her support and invitation. Their trust and vision made this impactful collaboration possible.
A Global Voice in Quantum Innovation
As a scientist, electrical engineer, Commissioning Editor, and Editor-in-Chief, Paulo continues to bridge the gap between frontier science and society. His mission is to humanize and democratize access to quantum knowledge, ensuring educators and students alike can envision its applications in everyday life and future careers.
The Spark Photonics Foundation team summarized his contribution best:
“Your expertise and passion for making quantum concepts accessible are helping educators prepare students for the future.”
Looking Ahead
With the success of this collaboration, Paulo and the Spark Photonics Foundation have set a new benchmark in quantum education outreach. Their partnership demonstrates the importance of connecting global experts with local classrooms to shape the quantum-ready workforce of tomorrow.
