As new and emerging technologies continue to increase in importance, so has Congress’s need to address the new challenges posed by them. These new technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence and data privacy, have created an increased urgency for Congress to pass legislation that could define American politics for the 21st century.
As one of the most advised bodies in the world, Congress has the ability to connect with various experts to make the most educated decisions about important legislation. Yet, Congress hosts about 3,500 staffers, with fewer than 20 of those being technologists. Although the effects of the COVID19 pandemic spurred the creation of the House Digital Services, there is still work to be done to help.
Every year, offices increasingly recognize the importance of technology expertise and the value our fellows bring to their offices. And every year, our program continues to grow. In 2023, we placed twenty-four technologists on Capitol Hill, technologists who were able to make an incredible impact.
And we are thrilled to build on this momentum and announce that applications are now open for TechCongress’ January 2024 Fellowships!
Between now and August 22, 2023, we’re looking for early and mid-career engineers, computer scientists, and other technologists who want to apply their skills to some of the biggest challenges facing our country and help shape technology policy. Even if you have not previously considered working in government, you’re not alone: some of our current fellows didn’t think civil service was their path, either.
We’re incredibly proud that our alumni have done groundbreaking work such as supporting Republicans and Democrats on the Senate Judiciary during its hearings with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, assisting the drafting and passage of the CHIPS and Science Act which supports the domestic production of semiconductors, or aiding in the efforts to draft and pass the Build Back Better Act into law. Our fellows have also served with some of the top leaders in Congress, including Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA).
Training our fellows on how Congress works is what we do best, and through our comprehensive orientation, we provide fellows with an in-depth look on how Congress functions as an institution, and how policy is made on the Hill. We provide fellows the tools they need to succeed from day one.
Throughout the next few months, we’ll be holding networking events and informational calls where you can ask us questions, meet the fellows, and learn more about the fellowship. You can check out a list of upcoming events on our Twitter and Linkedin.
We’re aiming to field our largest cohort yet - we hope you’ll apply!