This piece was originally published in the Techno-Industrial Policy Playbook.
Summary
The American government's strength increasingly depends on its technological capabilities, yet its hiring processes actively prevent it from hiring essential technical talent. While private sector companies can quickly hire skilled workers, federal agencies' bureaucratic processes deter qualified candidates, particularly in critical areas like artificial intelligence, semiconductor policy, and cybersecurity.
We propose reforming federal hiring through improved assessments and streamlined authorities. These changes would enable agencies to build the technical workforce needed to effectively implement defense, innovation, and industrial policy. By modernizing its hiring practices, the US government can position itself to lead through the technological revolutions that will define this century.
Problem
The US government's technological capabilities increasingly determine its global competitiveness and national security, yet current processes actively prevent it from hiring the technical talent it needs.
While private sector technology companies can hire skilled workers in weeks, federal agencies often take six to nine months to fill critical technical roles. This bureaucratic process particularly hurts high-priority programs in artificial intelligence, semiconductor policy, and cybersecurity.
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