Former Tesla Engineer Leads AI Strategy at Government Agency

AI-First Strategy Proposed for U.S. Government Department

Thomas Shedd, previously an engineer at Tesla and currently the director of Technology Transformation Services (TTS), has reportedly presented an “AI-first strategy” to a U.S. government department.

Sources cited by Wired indicate that Shedd, an associate of Elon Musk, detailed the plan to operate the department akin to a “startup software company” during a meeting held on Monday.

Budgetary Considerations and AI Implementation

According to reports in The New York Times, this initiative coincides with potential budget reductions, with the department anticipating a possible 50% cut in funding.

Shedd is focused on developing a unified, centralized database of government contracts. This database is intended to be specifically designed for analysis utilizing artificial intelligence.

This approach aligns with the principles of reduced government spending and increased dependence on AI. These principles are championed by Silicon Valley investors and leaders who are assuming positions within the government.

Role of Technology Transformation Services

The TTS operates as a division within the General Services Administration (GSA).

Its primary function is to assist federal agencies in enhancing their technological methodologies and practices.