The U.S. government has launched a new initiative aimed at assembling top AI talent to ensure the country remains competitive in the global tech race.
Unveiled by the Trump Administration, the U.S. Tech Force is described as “an elite group of 1,000 technology specialists hired by agencies to accelerate artificial intelligence implementation and solve the federal government’s most critical technological challenges.” Trump has made clear his plans for the U.S. to lead globally on AI, publishing an Action Plan in July.
Tech Force recruits could end up working on projects that cut across government departments and federal agencies, ranging from tasks such as overseeing financial infrastructure at the Treasury Department to handling cutting-edge programs at the Department of Defense.
Given that no fixed amount of experience is specified for applicants, most recruits are expected to be in the early stages of their careers, with Tech Force looking for candidates with expertise in AI, software engineering, cyber security, data analytics and tech project management.
Most of the roles will be based in Washington, although some might be offered in agency locations across the country, with annual salaries expected to be in the region of $150,000 to $200,000. Recruits will sign up for two years initially, working in teams that report to agency leaders.
The Tech Force is also partnering with tech companies to provide training and mentorship for recruits, as well as nominating full-time employees to work directly with the government. A host of big players have already signed up, including Adobe, Apple, AWS, Dell, IBM, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, OpenAI and xAI.
Once recruits have completed their program, there is also the promise that these companies will consider Tech Force alumni as potential employees, although continued federal service may also be an option.
The recruiting process is being led by the Office of Personnel Management, whose director Scott Kupor said: “This is a clarion call. If you want to help your country lead in the age of rapid technological advancement, we need you. Tech Force offers the chance to build and lead projects of national importance, while creating powerful career opportunities in both public service and the private sector.”
