xD is an emerging technologies group at the Census Bureau, whose mission is to advance the delivery of data-driven services through new and transformative technologies. WhirlWind has a strong relationship with the Census Bureau and xD, actively recruiting the best and brightest technologists with expertise in emerging technologies that drive data innovation at the Bureau and other federal agencies.

xD started as a group of technology specialists from across the Census Bureau. The first members joined in 2017, when data science, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies were in the early stages of deployment. They have since explored creative ways to get funding and continuously bring in talent to build a strong foundation for a team designed to keep pace with the latest trends. xD is quite different from many government programs in the ways the group is funded, how they acquire talent, and how they work on projects.

WhirlWind has been able to help this small, but mighty team with building out their fellowship program in support of data management.  xD and WhirlWind collaborated most recently to engage talent from the private sector and recent graduates from top universities for the Emerging Technology Fellowship (ETF) program, or for other roles of service to the government. This fellowship brings together experts in data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and product management, with innovators across the federal government to solve pressing technology problems, save taxpayer money, and position the Census Bureau as a leader in federal data innovation. The ETF is a way to temporarily bring in people who have fresh ideas and expertise for terms of one to four years. This program maintains an active list of project portfolios at https://www.xd.gov/projects/.

Recruitment for the ETF is fluid and evolves to meet portfolio priorities as the team identifies opportunities for innovation. When new positions are available, the ETF Program Manager will actively recruit for fellows. Fellows join the team for an opportunity to work on proof-of-concept technology projects that will help the Census Bureau be prepared for a more data-driven future. This dynamic xD team of both federal staffers and contractors is made up of experts in all types of emerging technology disciplines, for example, data science, privacy-enhancing technologies, and artificial intelligence, etc.  xD also plays a part in a job rotation program for some of the most talented members of the US Census Bureau workforce.

WhirlWind is proud to be a part of the promise of what xD brings to the Census Bureau!

Join us now to see how you can get engaged.