Russell, who earned his doctorate in physics at WashU in 2019, launched Gateway Quantum Electronics in 2023 to simplify one of quantum tech’s most difficult barriers: quantum amplifiers. GQE builds hardware that automates and streamlines the operation of quantum noise-limited amplifiers—technology that’s critical for scaling quantum computing and sensing.
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2026 QUESTIONNAIRE
PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
What has been your/your company’s most significant success over the past 12 months? Sales of our first product are up 250 percent over the previous year.
What has you most excited about the future of your company or industry? The quantum technology industry is still in its infancy! It’s exciting to see an industry taking shape in its earliest stages and to know there is so much more to come.
If you could change one thing about your industry, what would it be and why? I would love to see the quantum technology industry develop a larger footprint in the Midwest! It hasn’t historically been synonymous with “high tech”, but the region offers strong research universities, skilled manufacturing, and a lower-cost, strategically centralized location that can help diversify and strengthen the U.S. innovation ecosystem.
What’s the toughest business challenge you’ve had to overcome? Rapidly manufacturing a physical product while navigating supply chain constraints and adhering to our original goal of 100 percent domestic production has proven more challenging than we expected, but pushing through these difficulties has resulted in a better experience for our customers.
What’s a risk you took in business that didn’t pan out—but taught you something valuable? Getting sidetracked a few times has taught me the value of staying absolutely focused on one goal.
What advice would you give to the next generation of St. Louis entrepreneurs or leaders? If you have an idea, go for it, and do it here in St. Louis!
MENTORS & PEERS
What is a key strength of the St. Louis metro area business environment? The deep sense of community within the St. Louis business ecosystem is such an asset and, I suspect, somewhat unique in a large metro area. It’s inspiring to see entrepreneurs, investors, universities, companies of all sizes, and nonprofits actively collaborating and supporting each other with the common goal of building a better St. Louis.
What is one thing you would change about the St. Louis metro area business environment? Support for startups in St. Louis improves every year, but I think we have a lot of work to do support early-stage innovation in the area.
Who is the most interesting under-the-radar/emerging business leader in St. Louis? Tim Luchini, founder and CEO of Intramotev
What’s a local organization, nonprofit, or initiative that more people should know about—and why? Arch Grants is truly changing lives and building a bigger, better, more innovative St. Louis! Supporting Arch Grants is one of the easiest ways to support our city and its future.
BACKGROUND
Where were you born? Arkansas
What educational degrees do you hold, and where were they earned? Bachelor’s in Physics, Hendrix College; Ph.D. in Physics, Washington University in St. Louis
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? I used to do construction work in the summer when I was in high school, mostly pouring concrete. It gave me a deeper understanding of hard work and the opportunity to discover the joy of working with my hands.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
What’s your hobby/passion? My passion is developing cutting-edge technologies. My hobbies include gardening, Formula One racing, kayaking, hiking, and swimming.
What is one book you think everyone should read (or podcast everyone should listen to) and why? Diary of a CEO (DOAC) is an incredible podcast for those looking for deep insights and fresh perspectives on business, technology, and life in general.
What do you do when you’re feeling stuck or uninspired? When I’m stuck or feeling uninspired, I like to spend time with colleagues, usually discussing what they are working on. I always leave with fresh ideas and inspiration.
What would people be surprised to learn about you (fun fact)? My first name is Billy (not William).
