CIO Roundtable Calls for Proactive Measures to Address Quantum Threats and Harness Generative AI
By Lane F. Cooper, Editorial Director, BizTechReports | CIO.com Moderator
Organizations must act now to prepare for the looming threats of quantum computing while leveraging generative AI to enhance cybersecurity and operational efficiency. This was the consensus among industry leaders during a CIO Magazine virtual roundtable co-hosted by Ben Corll of Zscaler. The discussion brought together executives from various sectors to examine the dual challenge of mitigating quantum risks while capitalizing on AI-driven opportunities.
Participants from financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality explored the implications of these rapidly evolving technologies and the steps organizations must take to stay ahead.
The Looming "Q-Day" and the Need for Urgency
Ben Corll, CISO in Residence - Americas, Zscaler
A key concern raised was the approaching "Q-Day"—the moment when quantum computing could render current encryption methods obsolete. Some experts estimate this could happen as soon as 2027, fueling urgent discussions about safeguarding sensitive data and infrastructure.
While quantum computing remains in its early stages, participants stressed that organizations must act now. They urged enterprises to begin adopting post-quantum cryptographic standards approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
“Waiting until the threat materializes is not an option,” said Corll, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) in Residence at Zscaler. “Enterprises must demand quantum-ready capabilities from their vendors and ensure internal readiness to integrate and manage these solutions effectively.”
Leveraging Generative AI for Security and Optimization
Industry leaders agreed that generative AI could play a crucial role in addressing quantum-related challenges. Beyond its cybersecurity applications, AI offers powerful tools for simulations, data analysis, and operational optimization. However, integrating AI at scale requires careful management to address privacy, security, and regulatory concerns—especially in heavily regulated industries like healthcare and financial services.
The roundtable also emphasized the importance of a data-centric approach to security. “The perimeter is dead,” one participant noted, underscoring the need to protect data at its core, regardless of whether it resides in the cloud, on-premises, or within third-party systems.
Challenges in Quantum Readiness
Despite the urgency, participants acknowledged significant challenges in preparing for quantum computing. Organizations must overcome hurdles such as:
Data classification and prioritization – Identifying and securing sensitive information.
Encryption sprawl – Managing scattered and inconsistent encryption policies.
High costs – Addressing the financial burden of quantum readiness.
Talent shortages – Navigating the difficulty of hiring quantum-specific expertise.
Some industries, such as manufacturing and logistics, are already exploring quantum computing's operational benefits, including supply chain optimization and predictive maintenance. Meanwhile, sectors like hospitality remain focused on foundational AI adoption, making quantum discussions less immediate.
The Need for Industry-Wide Collaboration
Research cited during the event suggests that quantum-related cybersecurity spending is expected to grow by $3 billion annually, reaching $30 billion by 2030. However, participants noted a lack of industry-wide collaboration to tackle these challenges collectively.
The roundtable concluded with a call to action for enterprises to educate leadership teams, engage vendors early, and begin implementing quantum-ready solutions.
“The key is starting now,” Corll emphasized. “When quantum computing fully emerges, it will happen fast, and those who haven’t prepared will be left scrambling.”