Introducing Qollider
A quantum-focused after-school program for rural Colorado students.
The Newest After-School Program From Colorado AeroLab:
Qollider is a first-of-its-kind after-school program designed to give Colorado’s rural students a front-row seat to the future of science, technology, and innovation.
What is Qollider?
At Qollider, students become agents of discovery. With the help of hands-on project kits, creative problem-solving challenges, and mentorship from real scientists and innovators, kids explore the biggest ideas shaping our world—from artificial intelligence to quantum science.
Qollider isn’t just about learning facts. It’s about building confidence, resilience, and imagination—skills that will serve kids in school, in their career, and in life.
From Rubber Duck to Quantum Agent
Qollider unfolds in a series of three 10-week after-school sessions:
Phase 1: Talk to the Duck
The program begins with a playful, research-backed approach called “Talk to the Duck”—a fun and engaging problem-solving program using real rubber ducks to talk through problems. This social-emotional learning tool builds student confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills.
Phase 2: QI-5 Quantum Bootcamp
Students then enroll in a quantum bootcamp, where they help a team of superhero ducks save the world using quantum principles. With hands-on project kits and hybrid in-person and at-home learning, this is where the rubber meets the road.
Phase 3: The Next Protocol
Finally, students take charge of their newfound quantum knowledge to tackle a project of their choosing using quantum-based principles. At the end of the semester, students can pitch their solution to industry pros and decide how they want to build on their work.
Colorado is one of the fastest-growing centers for quantum technology in the nation.
That means thousands of new jobs—many available to students right out of high school with technical training. Qollider helps students see themselves in this future by building early interest and skills in STEM, teamwork, and problem-solving (while having fun along the way).
Qollider is now enrolling students in districts around Colorado.
Learn more and get involved at qollider.org