Silicon Valley on the South Side?: Impacts of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP)

• In Event: 20220 - Section on Communication, Information Technology, and Media Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Section on Communication, Information Technology, and Media Sociology Roundtable V: Digital phenomena, broadly construed

Abstract

Chicago is poised to be a national hub for quantum technology. With leadership provided by Chicago’s Quantum Exchange (CQE), the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) has been rapidly moving forward to construct a 128-acre campus on the far South Side of Chicago with shared research and production facilities for quantum technology companies. The project has promised The present article explored the growing investment in quantum technology and infrastructure utilizing the development of the (IQMP) as a case study. Employing Soja's (1996) trialectics of space as heuristic device for analysis, the conceptual and material elements of the social, economic, political, professional, and historic factors at play in the continued development of IQMP were explored for potential impacts to the residents and workforce in the city of Chicago. Broad implications were drawn for the development of Chicago’s Southside as well as quantum development writ large.

Author

• Erik Gustafson, University of Texas at Tyler