At the Tech Labs, we enable government staffers to become more knowledgeable in technology advancements and take their foundation to the next level, so they can make a stronger impact on future policies and regulations. We provide a well-reasoned, pragmatic technology training through a 6-week curriculum that introduces participants to foundational tech topics through engaging sessions led by experts from public, private, and non-profit sectors and featuring hands-on exercises, tabletops, and debates.
But we're not just another seminar. We are the landmark non-partisan training series that serves as the bridge between technologists, policymakers, industry, and global stakeholders.
Technology is changing more rapidly than ever. But our focus is not on keeping up with the newest innovations. We aim to demystify the most pressing topics that affect the government and the Americans they represent.
The Artificial Intelligence Lab
The AI Lab provides the knowledge foundation that is critical to supporting salient policy conversations around artificial intelligence, cutting through the hype and the doom to root in a deeper technical understanding of the topic. Sessions focus on topics like computational governance, national security, emerging research, and understanding Chinese AI development, with a special session focused on hearing real-world use cases across multiple industries and applications.
Open minds, fair discourse
There are no aisles in our classrooms. Meeting people with different perspectives is the key to evolving professional viewpoints for the better. Tracks are available for legislative and executive branch staff, acknowledging the different learning needs and perspectives of these two sides of government.
Join an inclusive club
The Tech Labs is built on the backbone of a 56 year nonpartisan legacy. The labs began in 2016 at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars as part of the landmark programming of the Science and Technology Innovation Program, with the goal of equipping Congressional staff with the knowledge needed to make informed policy on cybersecurity and AI. More than 1,200 government staffers from Capitol Hill and federal agencies have participated in Tech Labs to kickstart or deepen their understanding of tech. Since the reduction of the Wilson Center down to its statutory minimum, the Tech Labs has moved with the same staff that made it what it is today to Seed AI.
Participants who attend at least 5 out of 6 sessions join the AI Lab Alumni Network. Alumni are invited to take part in exclusive Tech Labs events and programs, including private briefings, workshops, study trips, and high-level roundtables.
The Tech Labs also aim to foster an expansive network of engaged policymakers with a networking component following each weekly session. At these networking events, participants can debrief on the week’s content in a non-classroom environment, exchange ideas on how the topic intersects with their work or personal interests, and generally get to know one another. This networking component sparks important conversations that foster lasting connections and perspectives, continuing well beyond the seminar series.
Who can apply?
The Tech Labs are only open to US government staff. We invite mid- to senior-level staff to participate; the program is also open to exceptional rising leaders with a demonstrated interest in the subject area who staff other US policymakers. Applicants should possess a strong understanding of the legislative process and aspire to a career shaping national security policy.
FAQ:
I don’t handle the technology portfolio in my office. Can I still apply?
Yes. We welcome applications from all staff, even if technology is not your current focus.
If I’m not offered a space—or I’m accepted but can’t meet the attendance requirements—can I apply for a future session?
Yes. Applicants are welcome to re-apply for future Lab sessions.
How much does it cost to attend the Lab?
The labs are offered free of any charge.