Youth Tour 2026

Every generation leaves behind a legacy, footprints that shape the future. The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour is your chance to do the same. For over 60 years, electric cooperatives have sent high school students to Washington, D.C., to discover their voice, step into history and begin writing the story only they can tell.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience isn’t just about seeing the nation’s capital. It’s about preparing students to lead, to grow and to make their mark on the world.

What’s in it for students?

Delegates from Montana will join more than 1,800 students from across the country in Washington, D.C., June 13 – 20, 2026. During the trip, students will:

• Develop leadership skills through hands-on experiences and workshops
• Strengthen their resumes with a nationally recognized program that stands out to colleges and employers
• Connect with peers from 44 states, building friendships that last long after the trip
• Meet with elected officials and learn how government impacts their communities
• Experience history up close by visiting world-class museums and monuments
• Learn about cooperatives and how they support rural communities across America

The best part? All expenses—travel, lodging, meals, and program costs—are covered by Big Flat Electric Coop. The program is coordinated by Montana Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

Don’t Let This Opportunity Pass By

Applications for Youth Tour will be open until December 5, 2025. If you know a high school student who is ready to grow as a leader and take the next step in their journey, encourage them to apply today.

This is more than a trip—it’s a chance to leave your mark.

Information and applications can be found by clicking above on “Member Services” and selecting “Youth Tour”.