The Government Digital Service (GDS) is inviting digital and data professionals across the public sector to get involved with a new initiative aimed at embedding artificial intelligence into software engineering teams and service delivery. The AI Engineering Lab is designed to accelerate responsible adoption of AI tools, build capability and create a shared evidence base for how AI can best support digital government transformation.
The lab, led by the Engineering Excellence team within GDS, will build on last year’s AI Coding Assistant (AICA) trial, which identified opportunities to improve efficiency and delivery through AI-assisted development. Rather than a one-off experiment, the initiative is intended as a sustained programme of support, training and evaluation that helps teams integrate AI tools into everyday workflows and assess where they add genuine value.
For local digital leaders and service innovators, the invitation to join the AI Engineering Lab represents a chance to influence how central government approaches AI in code, platforms and tools. It also signals a more coordinated approach to AI adoption, moving beyond isolated pilots to an environment where lessons and practice are shared across departments and organisations.
The core purpose of the lab is to support public sector software development teams in integrating leading AI tools throughout the development life cycle, enhancing productivity and quality without compromising standards or safety. Early in 2026, participants will be able to access time-limited licences for a range of AI coding assistants including Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, Amazon Q (or Kiro), and Claude, alongside structured technical support and training during the rollout period.
GDS stresses that the lab is “user-led”, with participating teams encouraged to contribute feedback on where tools should be used, where they may present risks, and where they are least effective. The approach reflects a broader shift in how government is thinking about responsible AI use — balancing innovation with governance, workforce capability and service quality.
In addition to licences and support, the AI Engineering Lab will host community events such as hackathons and meetings to share insights and develop collective practice. Participating teams do not need to be AI experts to join; the emphasis is on learning together and shaping standards and guidelines that could influence future government digital strategy and delivery.
Interested organisations can register for licences, access training, share use cases and join events by contacting the AI Engineering Lab team.