Charles Tahan helps build quantum computers at Microsoft Quantum. Prior to joining Microsoft, he led the National Quantum Initiative as Assistant Director for Quantum Information Science and Director of the National Quantum Coordination Office at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. From 2009 to 2024 Dr. Tahan worked at the National Security Agency's Laboratory for Physical Sciences in various roles including Principal Investigator, Program Manager, Office Chief, Technical Director, and Chief Scientist, ultimately overseeing programs in quantum computing, high performance computing, and sensors. He served as chief technical consultant for quantum information science and technology programs in DARPA’s Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) while at Booz Allen Hamilton from 2007 to 2009. His contributions to quantum computing have been recognized by the NSA Researcher of the Year Award, the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, election as a Fellow of the American Physical Society, and as an ODNI Science and Technology Fellow.