Engineers claim they build systems that matter. This fellowship lets you prove it. You'll ship relentlessly, face strict evaluation, and build production AI systems that directly influence how the U.S. government functions. No credential posturing. No abstract theory. Only weekly production output under real pressure.
Gauntlet for America is a selective, fully funded 10-week fellowship built to develop AI-native engineering capacity for the United States government. It operates as a high-intensity proving ground for seasoned engineers ready to show they can construct and maintain production-grade AI systems where reliability, security, and tangible impact count.
Fellows deploy weekly, undergo rigorous evaluation, and work alongside other elite engineers. Successful graduates transition into federal GS-12 engineering positions (~$150K + comprehensive federal benefits), building systems that directly affect government operations.
The fellowship spans 10 weeks: the first 3 weeks remote, then 7 weeks onsite in Austin, Texas. Expect a demanding schedule (80–100 hours/week) structured to accelerate learning velocity, generate signal, and optimize career trajectory.
Outcomes:
- 10+ production-ready AI systems delivered throughout the fellowship
- Immediate placement into a federal engineering position (GS-12 equivalent, ~$160K–$200K+ based on experience + full benefits)
- Contribution to high-impact systems that define 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're prepared to be judged by what you ship — not your academic background — apply now.