APPLICATIONS FOR YOUTH TOUR
2026 IS NOW OPEN.
 

June 14-20, 2026 more than 1,800 high school students nationwide will participate in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. The Youth Tour consists of a fast-paced, intense week of learning about history and government, visiting with the congressional delegation, and becoming more knowledgeable about the cooperative business model. This unique trip gives youth the opportunity to watch history come alive as they explore museums, memorials and monuments with students from our own state, and will make friendships that will last a lifetime.

DC

 

DC

 

DC
DC
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  • Essays are due by January 17, 2026.
  • Students must be enrolled as a high school sophomore or junior during the 2025-26 
    school year.
  • You and your parents or guardian must be served by Nodak Electric Cooperative.
  • Submit an essay in hard copy or electronic format, which is not to exceed two standard
    8.5” x 11” typewritten, double-spaced pages.
  • Submissions are judged by NDAREC Statewide Association in Bismarck; the winner is selected in February, 2026.
  •  

Essay question:

As member-owned organizations, electric cooperatives are always seeking new ways to engage their members. What are some ways electric cooperatives can better communicate and connect, especially with students and young adults?

 

Cover page – Title of the essay, name, address, phone number, e-mail address, date of birth, year in school, and school attended. Also include your parent or guardian’s name(s).

Second page – Your typed essay on the topic listed above.  Remember to limit your essay to two standard 8.5” x 11” typewritten, double-spaced pages, and conduct thorough research to ensure a knowledgeable essay.

*TIP* Ask a parent or teacher to proofread your essay. Having someone else look over your essay is the best way to catch mistakes and enables you to submit your best work! Grammar and punctuation are judged, along with relevant content.

 Questions, please contact Gretchen Schmaltz at (701)746-4461, (800)732-4373, or email gschmaltz@nodakelectric.com