Engineers often speak of working on meaningful problems. Here is an opportunity to demonstrate it through consistent delivery, rigorous assessment, and production AI systems that directly influence U.S. government operations. This role prioritizes execution over credentials, output over theory, and weekly production work under real constraints.
Gauntlet for America is a fully funded, competitive 10-week fellowship built to develop AI-native engineering talent for the United States government. It serves as a high-pressure proving environment for experienced engineers prepared to show they can design and deploy production-grade AI systems in settings where security, reliability, and tangible impact are non-negotiable.
Fellows deliver work weekly, undergo continuous evaluation, and collaborate with other high-caliber engineers. Those who complete the program successfully transition into federal GS-12 engineering positions (~$150K + comprehensive federal benefits), contributing to systems that shape government technology operations.
The fellowship spans 10 weeks: the first 3 weeks are conducted remotely, then 7 weeks onsite in Austin, Texas. Participants should anticipate an intensive schedule (80–100 hours/week) engineered to accelerate learning velocity, demonstrate capability, and produce strong career outcomes.
Outcomes:
- 10+ production-ready AI systems delivered throughout the fellowship
- Direct transition into a federal engineering position (GS-12 equivalent, ~$160K–$200K+ based on experience + full benefits)
- Contribution to high-impact systems influencing how the U.S. government designs and operates technology
- Entry into a network of AI-native engineers working at the leading edge of public sector innovation
If you are prepared to be assessed on the systems you deliver — not your academic background — submit your application now.