LateralWorkshop
A three-day workshop for experienced professionals moving into AI safety.
Safely developing advanced AI might be the most important problem of this century. Whether it goes well isn’t decided yet, and only a couple thousand researchers and policy professionals are working on it. Not enough of them have years of industry experience.
We’re looking for professionals with a track record of excellence in their field. Maybe you founded a renewable energy nonprofit or ran a US Senate campaign. Maybe something you designed is in orbit. Whatever it is, our goal is to show you how you can apply your skills to AI safety.
Program
Workshop • September 11–13 • Berkeley, CA
Through talks, 1:1s, and small-group discussions, hear from leaders in AI safety, exchange ideas with peers, and build relationships across the field.
Optional Extension • 3–6 months • Remote
Stay connected with your cohort and AI safety experts, deepen your domain knowledge, and find an impactful role you're excited about.
Speakers & guests
Explore your fit
You're a great fit if you:
- Recognize the importance of reducing risk from advanced AI
- Have engaged with fundamental AI safety material or completed an AI safety course
- Bring 5+ years of professional experience
- Excel in analytical, strategic, or creative work
- Keep an open mind and are willing to admit when you've been wrong
- Wrote, built, or designed something that is still in use years later
- Changed roles before and learned faster than others expected
- Overcame adversity on your path to success
Perspectives on moving into AI safety
I moved into AI safety in March 2026 after a career in civil rights litigation. My biggest worry was that, as a non-technical person, I'd struggle to add value, but the field turns out to need a wide range of skills and backgrounds, and my background in coalition work has already proven valuable.
Many people will tell you that you can either take care of yourself and your family, be happy at work, or work on something that's good for the world, but you can't have all three in one job. Those people are absolutely wrong. The AI safety field is hiring, growing explosively, and is a place where you can continue a strong career, working with smart, motivated, passionate peers, making a market salary, and doing it to make AI go well for humanity, not to maximize power or profit for an unpopular company.
FAQ
How much AI safety knowledge do I need?
You should understand the core motivations behind AI safety; specialized knowledge is not required.
What will the weekend include?
The weekend combines invited talks, small-group discussions, and one-on-one conversations with AI safety professionals.
How much does the program cost?
There is no cost to attend Lateral Workshop. Travel, accommodation, and meals are included for the in-person weekend.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close at 23:59 Anywhere on Earth on August 9.
When and where is the workshop?
The in-person program runs September 11–13 in Berkeley, California. Attendees from outside the area will arrive on the evening of September 10.
Who are the speakers and guests?
Speakers and guests will include AI safety professionals working across a range of subfields.
Will there be future Lateral Workshops?
We don't have any currently planned, but fill out our expression of interest form to stay notified about future iterations.
Know someone who would be a strong fit?
Submit a referral here.
Direct further questions to contact@lateralworkshop.org