Department of Technology

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Why America Needs our Department of Technology: A Call for Unified Leadership in AI Education

The United States faces challenges in AI education due to fragmented executive orders. To maintain global leadership, a permanent Department of Technology is proposed, ensuring continuity and collaboration. This department would lead comprehensive initiatives like ASPIRE, preparing K-12 students for an AI-driven future and securing America’s technological position.

Department Technology
2 minutes

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), the United States stands at a pivotal crossroads. While executive orders have been issued to promote AI education, these measures are often reactive, fragmented, and subject to change with each administration. To ensure sustained progress and global leadership in AI, it’s imperative to establish a permanent, nonpartisan entity: the Department of Technology.

The Current State: Executive Orders and Their Limitations

Over the past few years, several executive orders have aimed to integrate AI into the U.S. education system:

  • Executive Order 13859 (2019): Established a national strategy for AI research and development.
  • Executive Order 13960 (2020): Promoted the use of trustworthy AI within federal agencies.
  • Executive Order 14110 (2023): Introduced guidelines for the safe and secure development of AI.
  • Executive Order 14179 (2025): Focused on removing barriers to American leadership in AI.
  • Executive Order on Advancing AI Education for American Youth (2025): Directed the creation of a White House Task Force on AI Education and emphasized AI literacy in K-12 schools.

While these orders reflect a commitment to AI, they are often piecemeal and can be rescinded or altered by subsequent administrations. For instance, Executive Order 14110 was revoked within hours of President Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. (Executive Order 14110)

The Need for a Department of Technology

A Department of Technology would provide the continuity and coherence necessary for a nationwide AI strategy. Unlike executive orders, which can be overturned, a dedicated department would:

  • Ensure Consistency: Implement long-term AI education plans, such as our ASPIRE initiative.
  • Foster Collaboration: Coordinate between federal, state, and local governments, as well as private sector partners.
  • Adapt to Change: Quickly respond to technological advancements and societal needs.

The Department of Technology would serve as a central hub for AI policy, ensuring that the U.S. remains at the forefront of technological innovation.

ASPIRE: A Blueprint for AI Education

The Department of Technology has developed the ASPIRE (Artificial Science and Practical Intelligence Resource Education) plan, a comprehensive framework for integrating AI education across all K-12 grade levels. This plan includes:

  • Curriculum Development: Age-appropriate AI concepts and applications.
  • Teacher Training: Professional development to equip educators with AI knowledge.
  • Hands-on Learning: Projects and tools to engage students in real-world AI challenges.

Implementing ASPIRE nationwide would prepare students for the AI-driven future, ensuring they have the skills to thrive in a technology-centric world.

Summary

While executive orders have laid the groundwork for AI education, they lack the permanence and coordination needed for sustained success. Establishing a Department of Technology would provide the leadership and infrastructure necessary to implement and maintain comprehensive AI education initiatives like ASPIRE. It’s time to move beyond temporary measures and invest in a permanent solution that will secure America’s position as a global leader in artificial intelligence.

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