Quantum Leap 2026: Future of Work 2036 Challenge

Imagine the Future of Work. Then Shape It.

What will work look like ten years from now? How will artificial intelligence, automation, creativity, and human purpose redefine careers, skills, and the way we contribute to society?

The Future of Work: 2036 Challenge, hosted as part of Quantum Leap 2026, invites students to explore these questions and bring their vision of the future to life. This unique challenge is an opportunity to think boldly, create meaningfully, and share your ideas on a premier stage alongside innovators, educators, and industry leaders.

About the Challenge

The Future of Work: 2036 Challenge is a creative and thought-provoking experience where high school seniors, graduates, and college students are invited to imagine what professional life will look like a decade from now. Participants will create an original visual illustration—digital or physical—that represents their vision of how people will work, collaborate, and find purpose in a future shaped by technology.

This challenge goes beyond technical skill. It encourages imagination, ethical thinking, and human-centered design, asking participants to reflect not just on what technology can do, but on how it should serve people and society.

Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their work live on stage at Quantum Leap 2026, sharing their ideas with a panel of industry leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs.

Who Should Participate

The challenge is open to:

  • High school seniors or graduates

  • College and university students

Participants may compete individually or in small teams, and no technical, artistic, or design background is required. Whether you are an artist, a technologist, a storyteller, or simply someone curious about the future, this challenge is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and inspiring.

Students may also attend the event without presenting to learn, network, and engage with the ideas shaping the future of work.

What You Will Create

Participants will submit:

  • An original visual illustration (digital or physical), and

  • A short live presentation explaining:

    • How people will work in the future

    • The role of AI, automation, and technology

    • The skills, values, and human qualities that will matter most

The focus is on storytelling and vision, not technical complexity.

Judging & Prizes

Presentations will be evaluated by a distinguished panel of industry leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs. Submissions will be judged based on:

  • Creativity and originality

  • Depth of thinking

  • Visual storytelling

  • Clarity of presentation

  • A strong, human-centered vision of the future

The top prize is up to $10,000, along with recognition and the opportunity to showcase your ideas at one of the most forward-thinking innovation events of the year.

Event Details

  • Date: February 24, 2026

  • Location: Roxy Atlanta, GA

  • Part of: Quantum Leap 2026

  • Award: Up to $10,000

All participants will receive a 100% discount to attend Quantum Leap 2026.