The Peace Corps has launched Tech Corps, a new initiative sending STEM graduates and AI professionals to foreign countries as part of the US government's strategy to expand American AI influence globally. The program recruits professionals with artificial intelligence expertise to volunteer in participating host countries, marking a significant shift in the agency's traditional humanitarian mission.

Volunteers will work in Peace Corps countries participating in the American AI Exports Program, established through an executive order from President Trump last year. The initiative aims to strengthen the US position in the global AI market by addressing challenges in agriculture, education, health, and economic development through AI solutions. Participants will receive housing, healthcare, living stipends, and volunteer service awards for 12- to 27-month assignments.

While framed as humanitarian aid, the program directly supports US geopolitical interests in the competitive AI landscape, particularly against rivals like China. Acting Peace Corps Director Richard E. Swarttz stated volunteers will focus on "building technical capacity" and overcoming implementation barriers. This strategic pivot transforms the Peace Corps from a purely development-focused organization into a tool for technological diplomacy in the rapidly evolving global AI race.