Washington, USA: Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has recently hired six young engineers—aged between 19 and 24—including recent graduates and a current university student, despite their minimal experience in government operations. Among these new recruits is Akash Bobba, an Indian-origin engineer noted for his strong technical background. Prior to joining DOGE, Bobba interned at Meta and held roles at high-profile tech firms such as Palantir and the hedge fund Bridgewater Associates, specializing in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and financial modeling. His quick problem-solving skills were highlighted by a former classmate from his time at UC Berkeley.

The appointments, which include granting at least four of the new hires, Bobba among them, top-tier security clearances—typically reserved for senior officials—have sparked concern among security experts. The apprehension centers on these engineers’ lack of prior government or public service experience, especially given their placement in critical federal agencies like the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Critics worry that despite their technical expertise, the limited background in navigating government protocols might pose risks when handling sensitive information.