The US government has launched a bold new initiative called the US Tech Force to fill critical technology and artificial intelligence (AI) talent gaps US Tech Force Launched in federal agencies. This nationwide effort aims to bring skilled professionals into government roles for multi-year assignments, help modernize systems, and strengthen America’s position in global tech innovation.
This program responds to a pressing need for specialized tech expertise within government — particularly in AI, cybersecurity, and digital systems — at a time when private industry talent is in high demand.
What Is the US Tech Force?
The US Tech Force is a federal hiring and talent development initiative led by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). It was announced in December 2025 to recruit approximately 1,000 early-career technologists and place them in meaningful government roles across multiple agencies.
Participants — often called fellows — will serve in these roles for two-year terms while working on real projects with national impact. The program blends public service with opportunities to innovate, contributing directly to projects that advance digital services and AI adoption.
Why This Program Matters
Tackling Talent Shortages
Many federal agencies lack sufficient technology professionals, especially those with hands-on experience in AI and modern software systems. As agencies continue to compete globally and pursue digital transformation goals, this skills shortage has become a strategic challenge for the US government.
The Tech Force is designed to address these skill gaps by infusing the federal workforce with new technical talent and perspectives from the private sector.
Strategic Focus on AI
Central to the initiative is the expanded use of AI technology within government systems — from improving data operations to building smarter tools that help federal services operate more efficiently. With AI rapidly reshaping industries worldwide, the US Tech Force aims to ensure the government isn’t left behind.
Who Can Apply?
This program targets early-career professionals, including software engineers, data scientists, project managers, and AI specialists. Importantly, candidates do not need traditional degrees or extensive experience — the focus is on demonstrated technical ability, problem-solving skills, and passion for public service.
This approach widens access for talented individuals who might otherwise enter only private sector roles. It also encourages skilled tech workers to consider government service as a meaningful and impactful career path.
How It Works
Placement Across Federal Agencies
Selected fellows will be placed with various federal agencies where their skills are most needed. Agencies participating in the initiative include, but are not limited to:
- Department of Defense
- Department of Treasury
- Department of State
- Department of Energy
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
These placements give participants exposure to wide-ranging government challenges and opportunities to improve public services.
Competitive Salaries
To attract top talent away from high-paying private sector roles, the Tech Force offers competitive salaries, with most fellows earning between $150,000 and $200,000 per year.
This significantly narrows the pay gap between government work and private industry positions — making public service a more viable option for tech professionals.
Private Sector Partnerships
The initiative is backed by partnerships with major tech companies like Amazon Web Services, Apple, Google Public Sector, Microsoft, Nvidia, Oracle, and Meta. These organizations may allow employees to take temporary leaves of absence to serve in the Tech Force, and some may consider hiring program alumni afterward.
These collaborations also provide mentoring opportunities and specialized training, further enhancing the experience for participants.
Expected Benefits
Faster Digital Government
With new tech talent embedded in government, agencies can modernize aging systems faster, improve citizen experiences, and harness data more effectively.
Career Development Pathways
The program offers a unique careerlaunchpad. Fellows gain federal experience and mentorship — potentially leading to full-time roles in government or returning to the private sector with stronger credentials.
National Tech Competitiveness
By expanding AI expertise within the federal workforce, the US strengthens its ability to innovate and compete globally, especially in areas like cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital infrastructure.
FAQs
Q: What is the US Tech Force?
A: A federal initiative to recruit tech and AI talent to work across government agencies in two-year roles.
Q: Who runs the Tech Force?
A: It’s led by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Q: Are degrees required to apply?
A: No — applicants don’t need traditional degrees but must show strong technical skills.
Q: How much can Tech Force fellows earn?
A: Fellows can earn roughly $150,000 to $200,000 annually.
Q: What kinds of projects will participants work on?
A: Fellows will tackle digital system modernization, AI integration, data projects, and more.
Conclusion
The US Tech Force initiative represents a significant step toward modernizing the federal government with top technology talent. By attracting early-career professionals US Tech Force Launched, offering competitive salaries, and partnering with leading tech companies, the program seeks to close critical skill gaps and strengthen America’s digital future.
This innovative approach could not only transform federal agencies, but also reshape how government and technology sectors work together in the digital age.
