As the first data scientist in his division at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), NobleReach Scholar Patrick Dunnington is redefining the transformative role technology can play within our government.

Since joining the IRS through the NobleReach Scholars Program just over a year ago, Patrick has helped the agency reimagine how technology tools can serve both employees and the public. He’s led initiatives that have automated time-intensive processes, enhanced citizen-facing taxpayer customer service tools, and improved how the agency uses data to make decisions. His impressive work recently earned him a nomination for the NVTC Tech100 Rising Star list, recognizing emerging innovators shaping the future of technology in the National Capital Region.

Patrick’s projects demonstrate the potential of AI and data science to make government work better for everyone. He developed an automated data collection tool that has saved more than 1,000 hours of federal employee time, as well as a taxpayer assistant chatbot expected to cut government response times to taxpayers in half. It’s the kind of impact made possible through the NobleReach Scholars Program, which connects exceptional young technologists like Patrick with real-world government challenges, giving them a chance to innovate for the public good early in their careers.

Importantly, Patrick is helping change how government employees view and understand new technologies — building tools alongside users, not just for them. He starts by working with his agency colleagues to understand their challenges. He then designs products specifically for their needs and explains how they are designed to address them. This collaborative approach ensures that innovations are embraced and sustained, not just launched and forgotten.

Patrick understands technology can be a force for good when built with empathy and people in mind. That belief extends beyond his day job. With another NobleReach Scholar, Patrick is developing a reading app for early learners that uses voice recognition to give children instant feedback as they practice reading. He also volunteers with Sasha Bruce Youthwork, a D.C.-area nonprofit supporting youth experiencing homelessness.

Patrick’s path reflects the heart of the NobleReach mission: connecting talented technologists, entrepreneurs, and researchers with public service opportunities that drive meaningful change. Through his leadership, creativity, and commitment to service, Patrick is tackling complex government challenges, making employees’ lives easier, and improving citizen-government interactions. His work continues to elevate the perception of public sector jobs and helps blaze the trail for other talented young tech leaders to seek impactful, mission-driven careers.