In the rubber track industry—where products are heavy, timelines are tight, and margins leave no room for error—it’s rare to hear the phrase “quantum computing.” But for Todd Kassal, Project Manager at CK RubberTrack in Illinois, that’s exactly the point. Where others see an abstract concept years away from real-world use, Kassal sees a competitive advantage that’s already paying off.
From inventory forecasting to supply chain optimization, he’s using quantum-inspired solutions to modernize how CK RubberTrack manages complexity—and his efforts are reshaping what’s possible for small to mid-sized manufacturers across the country.
Beyond Buzzwords: Quantum with a Purpose
Kassal isn’t interested in tech for the sake of tech. His focus is crystal clear: reduce waste, speed up delivery, and make smarter decisions faster.
“Quantum computing doesn’t have to be mysterious,” he says. “If you break it down, it’s just about solving big, complicated problems more efficiently than classical systems can. And we’ve got plenty of those.”
Whether it’s balancing a dozen supply chain routes or planning a six-month facility upgrade, the challenges Kassal faces daily are filled with complex variables. That’s where quantum-inspired algorithms come in—offering faster, more accurate paths through the noise.
Smarter Forecasting, Leaner Inventory
At CK RubberTrack, the difference between too much and too little inventory isn’t just a cost issue—it’s a customer service problem. A wrong prediction can mean missed orders, idle equipment, and frustrated buyers.
Kassal has implemented quantum-enhanced forecasting models to simulate multiple demand scenarios at once. These models analyze everything from historical sales to construction starts, commodity prices, and regional weather—all in near real-time.
“We no longer rely on one prediction,” Kassal explains. “We’re looking at a range of possible futures and preparing for the most likely ones.”
The results have been eye-opening: reduced overstock by 18%, improved fulfillment rates, and a significant drop in urgent air shipments—all within the first year.
A Quantum-Driven Supply Chain
Rubber track manufacturing depends on a mix of overseas vendors, just-in-time deliveries, and coordinated shipments across hundreds of destinations. In short, it’s a logistical minefield.
With the help of quantum optimization software, Kassal can now simulate thousands of supply chain combinations to find the most cost-effective, time-sensitive options. These simulations factor in lead times, tariffs, customs processing, geopolitical events, and even transportation emissions.
“Something that used to take two weeks of planning meetings now gets done in a single dashboard session,” Kassal says. “And the system often sees routes we never would’ve considered.”
This new approach helped CK RubberTrack maintain 95%+ on-time delivery through periods of extreme global shipping volatility—a metric that puts them ahead of much larger competitors.
Quantum Scheduling = Fewer Delays
Another area where Kassal has found success is internal project planning. From launching new product lines to reconfiguring warehouse layouts, these projects used to suffer from late starts, deadline slippage, and resource clashes.
By using quantum-inspired scheduling tools, Kassal can model the most efficient sequence of events while balancing limited resources. He inputs constraints—like labor availability, machinery downtime, and budget windows—and the algorithm finds a solution that minimizes delays and risk.
“It’s not magic—it’s just better math,” he says. “But the impact is huge. We’re completing projects faster with fewer surprises, and we’re actually under budget more often than not.”
Building a Data-First Culture at CK RubberTrack
While quantum tech is the enabler, Kassal emphasizes that people and process are what turn it into a real business advantage.
He’s worked closely with procurement, operations, and executive leadership to make sure these tools are embedded into workflows—not tacked on as afterthoughts. Weekly meetings now include predictive dashboards. Sourcing decisions involve simulation scenarios. Project planning starts with algorithmic recommendations, not assumptions.
“It’s not about replacing people,” Kassal says. “It’s about giving them better tools so they can make better calls.”
The cultural impact has been dramatic. Team members feel more confident, leaders make faster decisions, and cross-functional alignment has never been stronger.
Looking Ahead: Product Innovation with Quantum Modeling
Kassal is already planning the next evolution of CK RubberTrack’s quantum journey: using quantum computing to accelerate product development.
Rubber tracks must endure extreme wear, pressure, and environmental conditions. Simulating these effects at the molecular level has traditionally taken weeks or required physical prototyping. But with quantum molecular modeling, Kassal believes they can design new compounds with better performance—before they ever hit the production floor.
“If we can predict durability down to the chemical structure, we can leapfrog the industry,” he says. “And we won’t be guessing—we’ll be engineering.”
Final Thoughts: Redefining What It Means to Be “Innovative”
Todd Kassal’s work at CK RubberTrack proves that you don’t need to be a Silicon Valley company to innovate with world-class technology. With a practical mindset, a clear business case, and a willingness to lead, Kassal has shown that quantum computing can—and should—be used wherever complex problems need smarter solutions.
His results speak for themselves: faster projects, leaner operations, more resilient logistics, and a future-focused roadmap that positions CK RubberTrack as a standout player in its space.
“Quantum computing isn’t about the future,” Kassal says. “For us, it’s how we win today.”
Conclusion:
With Todd Kassal at the helm, CK RubberTrack is proving that cutting-edge technology isn’t reserved for the elite—it’s a tool for anyone with the vision to use it. In Illinois, the future of manufacturing is already here—and it’s being built with quantum precision.