DHS Launches Private-Sector Pilot Program for Employees in STEM Fields

This week, we announced Exemplar, a pilot program for Department employees to get specialized, on-the-job training in the private sector. Through this new program, GS-11 through GS-15 employees in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields at the National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) and the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) will be detailed to for-profit private sector entities for hands-on experience in their fields.

Exemplar flips the Loaned Executive Program inside-out, creating a reverse program for training purposes. It will place our Department’s best STEM minds in for-profit companies in the private sector, allowing them to hone their skills and expand their experiences, while ensuring that our Department retains key talent. Our employees will receive valuable experience and return to build the Department’s capabilities in cybersecurity, engineering, multi-hazard mitigation and infrastructure investment, physical and cybersecurity integration, research and development, and scientific research.

Exemplar is an investment in our workforce and a significant opportunity for us to enhance our capabilities through public-private partnerships. We are committed to recruiting, retaining, growing, and creating new training opportunities for DHS professionals.

I look forward to learning about the valuable experience and ideas our employees will bring back to the Department thanks to Exemplar.

Companies and employees interested in applying to participate in the program can find more information at www.dhs.gov/exemplar.