US Government Launches Tech Force to Recruit AI Talent

Dec 17, 2025, 2:22 AM

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The US government has launched a new initiative called the "US Tech Force," aimed at recruiting early-career technology professionals to fill critical roles in federal agencies. This program is part of the Trump administration's broader strategy to modernize government systems and maintain a competitive edge in the global technology landscape.

The Tech Force program, spearheaded by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), seeks to address a significant talent gap in the public sector, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. Scott Kupor, OPM's director, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating that "there is no bigger and more complex set of problems than we face in the federal government." The program is designed to attract around 1,000 early-career software engineers, data scientists, project managers, and AI experts for two-year placements across various government agencies.

Applications for the program opened recently, with hopes of placing most of the initial cohort by the first quarter of 2026. Participants will work on high-impact projects, such as enhancing AI capabilities in defense systems, improving tax processing at the Internal Revenue Service, and advancing intelligence operations at the State Department.

The Tech Force initiative is part of a wider effort to accelerate AI adoption in government, following President Trump's AI action plan, which aims to bolster US AI infrastructure while reducing regulatory barriers. The program will also involve partnerships with major technology companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, which will provide mentorship and training opportunities for participants.

Throughout the two-year program, OPM plans to host events featuring industry leaders to inspire and guide the cohort. The program will culminate in a job fair, allowing participants to explore opportunities in both public and private sectors. Salaries for Tech Force members are projected to range from approximately $130,000 to $195,000 annually.

The initiative comes in the wake of significant reductions in the federal workforce and the dismantling of various technology units under the Trump administration. Critics have raised concerns about the need for this program, citing previous efforts that led to the exodus of skilled tech workers from government positions.

Despite these challenges, Kupor remains optimistic about the Tech Force's potential to attract top talent. He noted that the program is not just about filling positions but also about providing participants with valuable experience that can enhance their careers in both public service and the private sector.

The recruitment process will include an application, technical assessment, and interviews with agency leadership. The focus will be on strong technical skills rather than traditional educational backgrounds, reflecting a shift towards merit-based hiring in the tech sector.

In summary, the US Tech Force represents a strategic effort to revitalize the federal government's technological capabilities by harnessing the skills of early-career professionals in AI and data science. As the program unfolds, it aims to ensure that the federal government remains competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

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