Akash Bobba, 22-Year-Old Indian Origin Engineer, Joins Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency

Akash Bobba, 22-Year-Old Indian Origin Engineer, Joins Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency
Akash Bobba, a 22-year-old Indian-origin engineer, has recently gained attention after being hired by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Known for his expertise in AI, data analytics, and financial modeling, Bobba is one of six young engineers selected by Musk’s department, all aged between 19 and 24. These engineers have reportedly been granted access to sensitive government systems, raising concerns within political and public circles.
Bobba, who has a notable background in tech, began his career as a standout coder at UC Berkeley. He was part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology program and completed internships at leading companies, including Meta, Palantir, and Bridgewater Associates. His expertise in AI and data analytics has helped shape his career trajectory.
A former Berkeley classmate, Charis Zhang, recalled an impressive moment during their college days. Two days before a project deadline, Bobba’s teammate accidentally deleted their entire codebase. While others panicked, Bobba remained calm, rewriting the code overnight and submitting it ahead of schedule, securing top marks for the team.
Bobba’s role in the Department of Government Efficiency, where he reports to Amanda Scales, the chief of staff, has caused a stir due to his access to classified government systems. Critics argue that young engineers, despite their technical abilities, should not be granted such significant clearance without oversight.
At just 19, Bobba developed AI models for Meta, interned at Palantir at 20, and graduated from Berkeley at 21. By 22, he has been granted high-level access to help rebuild US government systems, sparking debate over the implications of such decisions in the realm of government data security and oversight.
Experts, including Don Moynihan from the University of Michigan, have raised concerns about the lack of accountability and transparency in giving young, non-public officials access to sensitive governmental information.