Meridian Tech Labs
Meridian’s Tech Labs are immersive training programs designed to strengthen U.S. government policymakers’ ability to engage with emerging technologies that shape national security, economic competitiveness, and global governance. Through a structured, multi-week curriculum, the Labs build practical technical literacy while fostering the cross-sector relationships that policymakers need to navigate complex technology policy challenges with confidence and credibility.
WHY THE TECH LABS EXIST
The pace and complexity of technological change have created a growing gap between innovation and policymaking. Established in 2016, the Tech Labs were designed to close this gap by providing government staff with a dedicated space to develop a deeper understanding of critical technology issues through ongoing engagement, not one-off briefings. By focusing on foundational concepts and real-world policy implications, the Labs help participants move beyond surface-level familiarity toward informed decision-making.
HOW THE TECH LABS WORK
Each Tech Lab is structured as a hands-on learning experience that combines expert-led instruction with interactive exercises, simulations, and discussion. Participants engage directly with technologists, researchers, industry leaders, and practitioners from across sectors, allowing them to examine how technologies are developed, deployed, and regulated in practice. This applied approach ensures that technical knowledge is immediately relevant to participants’ professional responsibilities.
APPLY NOW
Applications are currently closed.
THE LABS
AI LAB
The AI Lab introduces foundational artificial intelligence concepts to policymakers. Participants explore core AI principles, applications in governance and national security, and international perspectives, including AI development in China. Sessions combine expert-led lectures, interactive exercises, tabletop simulations, and real-world case studies, providing a practical understanding of AI and its policy implications.
ADVANCED AI LAB
The Advanced AI Lab builds on the foundation of the AI Lab for participants seeking deeper technical knowledge. The program examines frontier AI development, safety and security considerations, open-source models, synthetic content, and scientific discovery. Participants engage directly with AI models, testing them on real-world scenarios to strengthen their understanding of complex topics and policy relevance.
CYBERSECURITY LAB
The Cybersecurity Lab develops participants’ knowledge of core cybersecurity principles and systems. Topics include threat actors and tactics, cybercrime prevention, the private sector’s role in defense, and response strategies. Hands-on workshops allow participants to apply what they learn in realistic scenarios, bridging theory and practice.
BUILDING CAPACITY FOR RESPONSIBLE INNOVATION
By strengthening technical fluency and fostering open dialogue, the Tech Labs support a policymaking ecosystem that is informed, forward-looking, and values-driven. Participants leave better equipped to assess risk, anticipate opportunity, and contribute meaningfully to policy conversations shaping the future of technology in the United States and globally.
THE PATH FORWARD
Guided by Meridian’s mission to strengthen alliances and partnerships, increase U.S. competitiveness, and build geopolitical resilience, the Tech Labs advance U.S. policy capacity by equipping government staff with the technical foundations necessary to engage credibly on complex technology issues. Through immersive training and expert-led instruction, the Labs help participants translate technical concepts into actionable policy insight. By convening voices from government, industry, academia, and civil society, the program supports the development of pragmatic, values-based approaches to technology governance. In doing so, the Tech Labs cultivate a durable community of policymakers prepared to navigate emerging technologies in ways that reinforce U.S. leadership, security, and innovation.
Recent Programs
Leadership
