About the Fellowship
Thank you for your interest in the Institute for the American Worker Future of Work Fellowship
The Institute for the American Worker (I4AW) Future of Work Fellowship is a training ground for the next generation of policy leaders, advocates, and practitioners focused on the future of work and workforce policy. Fellows come to I4AW with the understanding that the status quo is failing too many workers and employers alike. They are ready to challenge conventional thinking, explore bold reforms, and help shape systems that prioritize opportunity, mobility, and economic security for American workers.
If accepted into the next I4AW Future of Work Fellowship cohort, you will:
Gain extensive foundational knowledge of workforce and future-of-work policy, including how policy is developed and implemented
Strengthen your ability to lead others and drive meaningful policy change
Join a national network of peers and experts committed to worker-centered reform
Explore career pathways in workforce policy and strategies for increasing your influence
This fellowship is for professionals who want to make a meaningful impact in workforce and labor policy—whether by stepping into a new role or by gaining greater influence and responsibility in their current organization or agency. I4AW welcomes government agency leaders and staff (executive or legislative), state legislators, reform advocates, researchers, policy-focused graduate students, and others working to improve outcomes for workers from within or alongside the system.
Program Format & Cost
The Institute for the American Worker Future of Work Fellowship dates are now live and will be designed to accommodate the schedules and demands of working professionals.
The Fall 2026 Fellowship will run from September 8 to November 14 and is designed to accommodate the schedules and demands of working professionals. Most sessions are held virtually one or two evenings per week—on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 7:30–9:00 PM ET. The program also includes an in-person fly-in retreat to Washington, DC on Nov. 12-14, where fellows gather for intensive networking, hands-on learning, and a collaborative policy development exercise. (Travel costs covered by I4AW.)
How to Apply
This is a competitive application process, and early applications are encouraged. Application deadlines are due by Friday, August 14th. Select applicants will be invited to a brief interview following application review.
Big Fish, Recruiting services focuses on helping employers find candidates who are changemakers and influencers. They possess both tangible and intangible skills required to be a catalyst to take your company or organization to the next level.
