The UK Government highlights that 2026 is an important year for digital transformation across the public sector, as artificial intelligence is expected to play an increased role in how government services are designed, built, and delivered
A key part of this shift is the AI Engineering Lab, a new initiative led by the Engineering Excellence team within the Government Digital Service (GDS).
The AI Engineering Lab is focused on one clear goal: helping public sector software teams adopt AI in a practical, responsible and effective way. By combining access to leading AI tools with hands-on support, training and evaluation, the AI Engineering Lab aims to embed AI into everyday engineering practice while ensuring it is used where it adds real value.
Driving AI adoption across government
The AI Engineering Lab builds on the success of the AI Coding Assistant (AICA) trial carried out in 2025. That trial showed strong potential for AI tools to improve developer productivity, accelerate delivery, and reduce repetitive work. The AI Engineering Lab takes this learning further by supporting sustained adoption rather than one-off experimentation.
Rather than focusing solely on technology, the AI Engineering Lab considers the full picture of AI enablement. This includes how tools are introduced, how teams are trained to use them well, and how their impact is measured over time. The approach recognises that meaningful change comes from combining good tooling with the right skills, guidance and culture.
What is the AI Engineering lab?
Led by the Engineering Excellence team in GDS, the AI Engineering Lab is designed to support software engineering teams across all public sector organisations. Its work spans the entire software development lifecycle, from discovery and design through to build, test and operate.
The Lab has three main aims:
- Integrating AI tooling into day-to-day engineering workflows
- Upskilling digital and data professionals so they can confidently and responsibly use AI
- Monitoring and evaluating where AI genuinely improves digital service delivery
The lab is user-led, so feedback from teams using the tools will directly influence how the programme evolves, including decisions about which tools to expand, where AI works well, and where it may not be appropriate.
What’s happening in early 2026
From early 2026, the AI Engineering Lab will start rolling out time-limited licences for a range of leading AI tools. These include Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, Amazon Q or Kiro, and Claude, with additional tools expected to be added later.
Licences will typically be available for up to six months and will be accompanied by support for technical setup, integration and training. While the tools will be available to all public sector departments and organisations, licence numbers are limited, so early engagement is encouraged.
Alongside tooling, the AI Engineering Lab will host hackathons, community meet-ups and learning events. These sessions are designed to be inclusive and accessible, welcoming anyone interested in how AI can support software engineering, regardless of experience level.
How to get involved
There are a few ways to take part in the AI Engineering Lab. Teams can apply for licences to AI coding assistants, access structured training and guidance, and share feedback or real-world examples of how the tools are being used. Attending events and contributing to the growing community of practice is also strongly encouraged.
By getting involved, public sector professionals can directly influence how AI is adopted across government and help ensure it supports high-quality, trustworthy digital services.
To take part in the AI Engineering Lab, contact gdsengineeringexcellence@dsit.gov.uk.
