A former Tesla software engineer has recently been appointed to a federal position by Elon Musk, focusing on utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to identify potential budget cuts within the government. Thomas Shedd, who worked at Tesla for seven years, is now the Director of the Technology Transformation Services (TTS) group at the General Services Administration, leading a team of around 700 engineering professionals handpicked by Musk.
Shedd has reportedly expressed his intention to leverage AI for cost-reduction efforts and create a comprehensive database of government contracts. However, concerns have been raised regarding privacy laws and the legality of such data collection. Despite these potential roadblocks, Shedd is determined to explore all possibilities in this regard.
In response to his new federal role, Shedd has highlighted his experience at Tesla, where he focused on software, cameras, and overseeing teams in vehicle and battery factories. Musk’s decision to appoint former engineering talent to key government positions aligns with the Trump administration’s goal of integrating more AI technologies across government agencies and implementing significant budget cuts.
Over the weekend, Musk also made headlines by restructuring the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), placing senior staff members on administrative leave. He criticized USAID as a “criminal organization” and described it as a “viper’s nest of radical-left Marxists who hate America.” This move underscores Musk’s commitment to streamlining government operations and promoting efficiency through his newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
As Shedd begins his new role in federal government, the integration of AI technologies and the pursuit of budget reductions are expected to be key priorities. His background in software engineering and experience at Tesla will likely contribute to innovative solutions and strategies for optimizing government processes. The collaboration between Elon Musk and former Tesla employees in federal positions reflects a unique approach to government efficiency and cost-cutting measures.