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Leonard W.

Leonard Woody

Author of Essential Math of Quantum Computing | Ex-Microsoft, IonQ

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Work with Leonard

About

I help people understand quantum computing and build careers in it, without the hype. I spent seven years working in quantum at Microsoft, first as a Quantum Ambassador and later as a Senior Product Manager on Azure Quantum. Before that, I spent nearly 20 years as a software developer and solution architect. I wrote Essential Mathematics of Quantum Computing (Packt), I’ve created quantum training for Microsoft and IonQ, and I’m an Affiliate Faculty member in Physics and Astronomy at George Mason University. Today I run Essential Quantum Group, an independent quantum consulting firm. I can help you: Map out a realistic path into a quantum career Truly understand the math behind qubits, gates, and algorithms Make sense of what quantum means for your business Working with me is interactive, not a lecture. We’ll work through examples together, I’ll answer your questions as they come up, and I’ll give you practice between sessions so the ideas stick. I’m patient, I’ll meet you where you are, and no question is too basic.

Leonard’s Quantum Computing Qualifications

Experience level: Associate

I'm the author of Essential Mathematics of Quantum Computing and have served as a Director at both Microsoft and IonQ. Quantum computing is my passion, and I especially love teaching, turning complex technical ideas into clear, approachable explanations. Whether you're building your foundations or aiming for your next role in the field, I'd be glad to help you get there!

Leonard can help with:

Behavioral Interview Prep

Cover Letters

LinkedIn Review

Networking Strategy

Quantum Algorithms & Programming

Quantum Cryptography & Security

Quantum Hardware & Systems

Quantum Research & Academia

Resume Review

Salary Negotiation

Technical Interview Prep

Why do I coach?

I’ve always loved teaching. Some of my favorite moments are when an idea finally clicks for someone, whether it’s my own kids, a new college graduate, or a room full of executives. Quantum computing has a reputation for being impossible to understand, and I don’t think it has to be. Most people just need someone to explain the ideas clearly and show them where to start. I’ve been that person for many colleagues and customers over the years, and I’d love to do the same for you. I also believe quantum computing will only reach its potential if more capable people join the field. Helping you take that step is my small way of helping make it a reality.

Work Experience

Essential Quantum Group Logo

Founder & Managing Director

Essential Quantum Group

September 2026 - Present

Hiring Manager

• Provide expert quantum consulting to clients such as hedge funds on the state of the market and understanding quantum computing. • Provide training on quantum computing to small and mid-size companies. • Authoring the second edition of my book and technical articles.

IonQ Logo

Senior Director

IonQ

August 2025 - August 2026

Interviewer

• Consulted with IonQ’s largest customers on quantum solutions and using trapped-ion QPUs. • Designed classes on quantum computing, quantum networking, quantum sensing and security for developers and executives. • Designed, delivered, and managed 14 week full-time quantum education program for recent STEM graduates.

Microsoft Logo

Director

Microsoft

August 2018 - July 2025

Interviewer

Director, Quantum Engagement Mar 2024 – Jul 2025 • Led internal and external community engagement for Azure Quantum through the MVP and Field Ambassador programs. • Ran Microsoft's internal deep customer engagement engine for quantum and served as the organization's quantum SME. Senior Product Manager, Quantum Engagement Lead & SME Jul 2022 – Mar 2024 • Led the quantum customer engagement program, briefing dozens of enterprise customers annually on quantum computing's trajectory and Microsoft's roadmap. • Reviewed all organizational quantum deliverables for technical accuracy as designated subject matter expert. Senior Program Manager, Azure Quantum Jan 2022 – Jul 2022 • Program-managed the Azure Quantum engagement with Goldman Sachs, producing a published paper and case study on the Azure Quantum Resource Estimator. • Delivered videos, workshops, compete assets, executive briefings, and hackathon support; led Microsoft's worldwide quantum computing community. Senior Cloud Solution Architect Aug 2018 – Dec 2021 • Managed multiple financial services clients, advising on software engineering practices and leading consultant teams to mature their development capabilities.

ICF Logo

Senior Consultant

ICF

July 2016 - August 2018

• Provided thought leadership and consulting in software engineering practices including Scrum and SAFe for large federal agency. • Led a NIST 800-53 IT security policy initiative and evaluated digital forensics use at an Inspector General's office.

Intrinsic LLC Logo

Partner

Intrinsic LLC

December 2012 - July 2016

Hiring Manager

• Led a practice of four teams delivering COTS solutions to ~2,000 external stakeholders. • Represented the practice at C-level IT meetings and presented to hundreds of customers; served as SME on requirements, testing, development, CI, and CD.

CEI Logo

Director

CEI

May 2010 - December 2012

Hiring Manager

• Led the Microsoft practice focused on DevOps and .NET solutions, owning sales, delivery management, recruiting, and strategic planning. • Conducted 20+ Team Foundation Server quick-starts and reviewed, assessed, and documented system architectures for multiple clients.

Sapient Logo

Manager

Sapient

May 2009 - May 2010

Hiring Manager

• Served as one of three chief architects on a 45-person, ~$15M/year program; managed and staffed a 20-person technical track.

CIBER Logo

Technical Project Lead

CIBER

November 2005 - May 2009

Interviewer

• Lead software developer on projects for AARP, Newsweek, and The Washington Post.

Education

George Mason University Logo

George Mason University

Master's Degree, Software Engineering

2006 - 2010

University of Virginia, Charlottesville Logo

University of Virginia, Charlottesville

Bachelor's Degree, Computer Science and Physics

1998 - 2003

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