CGI Federal Inc. has entered into an agreement with the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to study how agentic AI and quantum computing could improve warehouse operations and help keep supply chains running in contested environments.
This applied research initiative is called the Quantum Pathfinder, and brings togethether government mission ownership, university research leadership and commercial quantum capability to test potential uses for agentic AI and quantum computing in supporting national readiness, the company said.
“Quantum computing will not arrive as a single product launch; it will arrive as a series of hard research problems solved against real mission constraints that evolve as compute modalities emerge,” said Victor Foulk, vice president of emerging technologies for CGI Federal.
“We are investing to do that work now, alongside a federal partner that understands the mission and an academic partner with deep research expertise. That’s how you deliver next-generation mission outcomes instead of demonstrations.”
Quantum Pathfinder will initially examine dynamic smart-warehouse orchestration, reverse logistics and disposition, and resilient inventory positioning for contested environments.
“This agreement with CGI Federal represents an important step in connecting Knoxville’s research strengths, industry expertise and talent-development capabilities to accelerate quantum innovation in Tennessee and beyond,” said Marc Gibson, associate vice chancellor for innovation partnerships and economic development at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
“Together through the Knoxville Quantum Accelerator, we will pursue strategic investments in research infrastructure, develop the workforce needed for the emerging quantum economy, compete for large-scale funding opportunities and create clearer pathways from discovery to commercialization. By aligning the UT, CGI Federal and partners across the state and nation, we can advance the Tennessee Quantum Initiative and position East Tennessee as a nationally recognized hub for quantum research, development and economic growth.”
Jessica Hersey, senior vice president and business unit leader of defense, intelligence and space at CGI Federal, added that logistics are part of achieving national readiness, and leaders in its domain shape how technologies get applied.
“Deep logistics expertise coupled with AI is the foundational bridge between the systems that our clients depend on today and the capability quantum could enable tomorrow. CGI Federal intends to build that bridge with partners, collaboration and results,” Hersey said.
CGI Federal will host the Quantum Pathfinder at its Knoxville onshore delivery center.