Technology and democracy are intrinsically intertwined, and public interest technologists are leading the way in developing systems that uphold ethical standards and the will of the people. Heading into a year of highly-contested elections around the globe, this work is all the more urgent.
In the November 2023 issue of PITUNiverse, you'll find insights from experts in law, community-centered data science, computer science, public policy and more on how PIT practitioners are defending democracy.
Researchers and educators across PIT-UN are developing unique curricula, research and career pathways that will help meet the pressing need for technologists committed to defending democracy. (Allison Price, Digital Impact and Governance Initiative at New America)
The CORE Futures Lab at Howard University champions community-centered data science, engaging students and communities to address environmental injustices, and empower marginalized groups in shaping a truly democratic future. (Amy Yeboah Quarkume, Howard University)
Computer science education must help students understand the ethical implications of AI, and the questions of value and design that must guide technology development. (Denise Ferebee, Rust College)
Both law and technology are powerful levers in our society, but as professions remain inaccessible to most people. A new center at Temple Law charts new research and career pathways for PIT lawyers. (Laura Bingham, Temple University)
Breaking down what the sweeping executive order actually says, and the pivotal role that the academic community can play in shaping the future of AI governance. (Margaret Hu, William & Mary)
Nearly 1,400 students and over 150 employers were engaged at PIT Career Fairs this fall, facilitating over 500 one-to-one meetings between aspiring public interest technologists and hiring organizations from non-profits, government and industry.
Below, find brief reports, photos and student testimonials from fairs at Carnegie Mellon, the City University of New York, LeMoyne-Owen, San José State and Stillman.
It's time to join 2024 Working Groups! Options include PIT @ NSF, PIT and AI Policy, or one of four Regional Hubs, a new framework that will broaden and strengthen PIT programming and workforce development through place-based activities.
Serve in Federal Government - Applications close tomorrow!
The U.S. Digital Corps bridges existing public interest technology
internship opportunities and established civic tech organizations by providing a two-year, full-time fellowship for new and recent graduates to start their careers in government. Apply here.
Presidential Innovation Fellows is accepting applications for an AI-focused cohort that will start in Summer 2024. Each fellow is paired with a federal agency to complete a 12-24 month project as an entrepreneur-in-residence.Apply here.
With support from a 2022 PIT-UN Network Challenge Grant, Denise Ferebee (Rust College) and Zina Parker (LeMoyne-Owen College) led a group of faculty from five universities in creating a workbook for educators and students interested in public interest technology. Learn more and download the workbook below.
