Applied AI Engineer

$160K–$200K+ Offers For Graduates ^{$160K–$200K+ Offers For Graduates} 

Gauntlet for America is a selective, fully funded 10-week fellowship focused on developing AI-native engineering talent for the United States government.

This is an intensive proving ground for skilled engineers ready to show they can design and deploy production-grade AI systems in settings where security, reliability, and tangible impact are critical.

Participants deliver work weekly, undergo continuous evaluation, and collaborate with other top-tier engineers. Those who complete the program successfully transition into federal GS-12 engineering positions (~$150K + comprehensive federal benefits), contributing to systems that shape government operations.

The fellowship structure: 10 weeks total—3 weeks conducted remotely, then 7 weeks onsite in Austin, Texas. Participants should anticipate a demanding schedule (80–100 hours/week) engineered to accelerate learning, assessment, and professional advancement.

What to Expect:

• Deliver 10+ production-ready AI systems over the course of the fellowship
• Secure direct placement into a federal engineering position (GS-12 equivalent, ~$160K–$200K+ based on experience + full benefits)
• Contribute to high-impact systems that influence how the U.S. government builds and deploys technology
• Become part of a network of AI-native engineers leading innovation in the public sector