Trump Launches "Tech Force" Program: No Degree Required, Up to $200,000 Annual Salary

The Trump administration recently launched a new recruitment program – the American Tech Talent Program. What makes this program unique is that it doesn't require applicants to have a college degree or minimum work experience. This means that technically skilled individuals with the ability and passion can join the U.S. government's technology team, earning an annual salary of $150,000 to $200,000.

The "Tech Force" program aims to recruit approximately 1,000 technical professionals, including engineers, data scientists, and artificial intelligence experts. These individuals will be assigned to various U.S. government agencies to participate in critical technology projects, such as advancing artificial intelligence technology, developing applications, and improving data processing systems. Participants will be called "fellows" and will work in important government departments such as the Department of Defense, the Department of the Treasury, the Department of State, and the Department of Energy for a two-year term.

Unlike traditional government hiring requirements, applicants do not need a college degree or specific work experience. They can apply as long as they can demonstrate solid technical skills through work experience, projects, or certifications. The only essential requirements are strong problem-solving abilities and a passion for public service.

Technical professionals in the program will receive an annual salary between $150,000 and $200,000, a salary level comparable to that of private companies, especially those in Silicon Valley. Most positions are at the GS-13 or GS-14 level, which typically offer very competitive salaries.

In addition, participating private companies, such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, will provide training and mentorship to the participants and have indicated that they will prioritize hiring these individuals after the "Tech Force" program ends. This allows participants to gain valuable experience in government departments while also securing better career opportunities in the private sector.

The U.S. government hopes that this program will attract more top technical talent to government agencies, helping to advance the U.S.'s leading position in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and data processing. Especially in today's increasingly competitive global technology landscape, the U.S. government urgently needs modern technological capabilities to address various challenges.

The "Tech Force" program also reflects the U.S. government's deep understanding of the shortage of technical talent. Government downsizing and cuts to technology departments have led to a shortage of technical talent, hindering the government's progress in digital transformation. Through this program, the Trump administration hopes to address this problem and strengthen the government's technological capabilities. The program collaborates with several technology companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, and Oracle, which will provide participants with technical support and career guidance. The program will also partner with the NobleReach Foundation to help connect technology talent with public service opportunities.

Recruitment has already begun through federal hiring channels. Applicants will undergo initial screening and technical assessments, with final hiring decisions made by the relevant government departments. The first cohort of participants is expected to start work by the end of March 2026.

The "Tech Talent" program, launched by the Trump administration, not only provides technology professionals with high-paying government jobs without traditional educational requirements but also offers a new path for improving the U.S. government's technological capabilities. Through this program, the government hopes to attract more innovative technology talent and maintain the nation's leading position in technological competition. For young technology professionals, this is an unprecedented career opportunity, especially for those without a college degree or traditional work experience; it may be their only chance to enter the government technology sector.