CPaCE News

The word “quantum” is sometimes associated with science fiction and superhero multiverses, but in reality, quantum technology is already changing the world and the workplace with increasing frequency. Quantum computers utilize the behavior of subatomic particles to quickly perform complex calculations with turbo-charged cybersecurity measures, and these powerful scientific developments are revolutionizing the business world. That’s where CSULB alum Ezunial “Eze” Burts III is blazing his own path. As Director of the Duality Quantum Accelerator-Incubator at the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Ezunial leads the first program of its kind in the U.S. 

A graduate of CSULB’s Global Logistics Professional (GLP) program, Ezunial now oversees all aspects of operations for Duality Accelerator, which supports new start-up companies working at the frontiers of quantum technology. The 12-month program provides critical resources in the early stages of an organization's growth including diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Ezunial’s role is to guide Duality’s financial strategy, donor stewardship, and long-range business planning while cultivating partnerships with venture capitalists, corporations, and other stakeholders.

“This is an attractive space for GLP students and alumni because quantum technologies are being used to mitigate supply chain issues,” Ezunial said, identifying some of those issues as warehouse inventory tracking, faster shipping times, cost savings, and the environmental impact of ships on marine life.

“I believe we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in talent,” he continued, “and build a new workforce of innovators who are rapidly developing quantum technology to disrupt and redefine industries in the 2020s and beyond.”

Earlier in his career, Ezunial wanted to learn more about how logistics and the global supply chain impacted his job in aerospace manufacturing, especially when he led a groundwater clean-up project with scientists to analyze and treat contamination at a former government rocket testing site. The experience of encountering that challenge has made him even more excited about the new opportunities available through his current job at Duality.

“Imagine the impact of applying quantum computing technology to clean up polluted water,” said Ezunial. “The ability to process millions of data points through complex algorithms with great efficiency could help generate safer treatment methods in minutes, if not seconds. This is just one example of how quantum technology can be applied to tackle real-world problems across numerous industries in ways that will improve our quality of life.”

Ezunial credits the GLP program, which he completed in 2006, with providing an intensive curriculum on an accelerated timeline that propelled him towards his current success. The flexible schedule offered evening and weekend classes that were close to his home, and compatible with his job and family life. The program also connected him to a diverse range of professionals who continue to support each other through various stages of their careers.

“It’s 15-plus years later, and I still keep in touch with [former classmates],” he said, describing the course’s final capstone project as a special highlight. “This team experience taught me the importance of positive group dynamics: building rapport with teammates, keeping open lines of communication, quickly tackling problems, and clearly defining roles and responsibilities.”

“The program immediately enhanced my credibility and positive career trajectory,” he added, noting that he earned his first promotion within six months of completing the GLP program. “It also taught me how to form meaningful, long-lasting business relationships.”

Through the GLP program, Ezunial learned about CSULB’s Center for International Trade and Transportation (CITT), which provided a wealth of industry research, policy analysis, and other resources that prepared him for leadership roles, first at Boeing and eventually at Duality Accelerator. 

“The CITT interdisciplinary framework promotes meaningful collaboration between the research community and industry to solve urgent global challenges,” he said. “I felt inspired and confident in my ability to contribute and thrive in this new environment.”

In Spring 2023, Ezunial’s career came full circle when he was invited back to CSULB to teach the GLP course in Group Dynamics & Leadership in Supply Chain Management. As an instructor and mentor, he enjoys cultivating the next generation of leaders and galvanizing them to tackle the latest challenges in the industry.

“GLP had such a profound impact on my life, and I felt compelled to give back,” he said. “I’m excited about the evolution of the program and the caliber of its students!”

Click here to learn more about the Global Logistics Professional (GLP) program at CSULB.