Booz Allen Hamilton Implements Six-Day Workweek for Defense Contractors Due to DOGE Mandates

April 1, 2025 – In response to new directives from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Booz Allen Hamilton, Artemis, and AOG have announced in a joint press released that their defense contractors will be required to work a six-day workweek starting May 01, 2025. The change is part of a broader push by the government to streamline operations and accelerate project timelines in the defense sector.

The six-day workweek, which will primarily affect employees working on government defense contracts, is a direct result of DOGE’s increased focus on boosting productivity while reducing costs. The department, led by Elon Musk’s efficiency initiative, has been actively enforcing stricter deadlines and cost-cutting measures across federal contractors. This latest move comes as part of DOGE's larger overhaul of defense procurement processes.

“We recognize that this is a significant shift, but in order to meet the Department of Defense’s evolving needs, this change is necessary," said Horacio Rozanski, CEO of Booz Allen Hamilton. "This adjustment will ensure that we remain at the forefront of the defense industry, ready to deliver quality work faster and more efficiently than ever before."

The new six-day workweek will require employees to extend their work hours to accommodate the accelerated schedules set by DOGE. Contractors will be expected to adjust their work schedules accordingly, with the first full week under the new policy set to begin on May 01, 2025.

While some employees have expressed concerns about the increased workload, others are taking a more positive view of the change. Tatt Makanen, a Booz Allen Hamilton employee and U.S. Air Force veteran, said he’s looking forward to the additional time to thoroughly assess the defense funding plans that will shape the future of the military.

“Having the extra day in the week will give my colleagues the opportunity to dive deeper into the funding proposals, conduct deep analysis, and make sure that every dollar is being used effectively,” said Makanen. “As a taxpayer, with the increasing pressure on defense budgets, it's more important than ever that we are meticulous about how resources are allocated, and I’m glad BAH and others are aligned with this administration’s priorities. Plus my kids and wife are kind of annoying after a while. Two-days with them is too much. I’m sure others will agree with this policy once it goes into effect.”

Despite the positive outlook from some employees like Makanen, others have raised concerns about the toll the extended workweek might take on their personal lives. “Did Tatt Makanen mention he’s leaving before this policy goes into effect!?” one angry co-worker asked your correspondent. “No? Incredible.” Critics further worry that the pressure to meet DOGE's high expectations could lead to burnout and decrease morale among workers, especially those who are already managing demanding workloads.

BAH, Artemis, and AOG have reassured employees that they will continue to provide support and resources to help them manage the increased demands. The companies are also reportedly looking into additional programs to maintain employee well-being during this challenging transition like Zoom-bedtime appointments with kids and other exciting virtual parenting options.

As the defense contracting industry continues to evolve under the guidance of DOGE, these government contractors are positioning themselves as allies to the new adminstration with these new standards. With the six-day workweek set to begin soon, all eyes will be on how the transition unfolds and whether it can maintain the balance between meeting government expectations and ensuring employee satisfaction.