Post-RIF Agencies Turning to AI Tools and Targeted Hiring to Rebuild Capacity

After deep workforce cuts across the federal government, agencies are deploying AI tools to multiply remaining employees' productivity while selectively hiring in critical skills gaps -- software development, AI/ML, data science, and cybersecurity. OPM's new Tech Force program released its first batch of pre-vetted technical candidates for agency consideration. For IC applicants with STEM backgrounds, the hiring landscape is narrowing to technical specialties where demand still outstrips the RIF-reduced supply.