Join the state’s future leaders for a week of exploration, education, and leadership training! The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour allows students to experience Washington, D.C. and learn more about how they can make a difference as young adults. Students will learn about the cooperative business model and values, visit historic monuments and memorials, pay their respects at The Arlington National Cemetery, meet elected officials, and tour a variety of Smithsonian museums, all while building a peer network with young leaders from across the country. Not only is this a great experience, but this trip looks great on college applications and attending students are eligible for two college scholarships.
The weeklong, all-expenses-paid tour is hosted by electric cooperatives across the nation, continuing a proud tradition that spans over 50 years. In 2026, students from more than 40 states will participate, including a delegation of over 44 students representing North Carolina’s electric cooperatives. This exceptional opportunity offers students a firsthand look at a variety of career and volunteer pathways, regardless of their post-high school ambitions. Find out more information about the trip from a national perspective at NRECA Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
“NC Youth Tour is the perfect way for students to grow as a young leader in one of the world’s most influential places.” –Co-op officials and past Youth Tour participants
Attending the Youth Leadership Power Up event opens the door to additional leadership opportunities, including the NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., and the CCC Cooperative Leadership Camp this summer.
Students interested in attending the Youth Leadership Power Up event are encouraged to contact their school administrators to apply. For more information, please contact Hannah Mabe at (910) 259-1892 or reach out via email at programs@fourcty.org.
Join us for a special InStudio conversation with Zachary Fisher and Adolfo Santiago, two outstanding students who represented Four County EMC on the 2025 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.