Each summer, high school students from across Nebraska have the unique opportunity to explore the world of public power at the Nebraska Rural Electric Association (NREA) Youth Energy Leadership Camp. This year’s camp will take place July 21-25 at Camp Comeca, near Cozad, Nebraska, offering an immersive, hands-on experience in electricity, power generation, and the rural electric industry.
Designed to educate, challenge, and inspire, this week-long program blends learning with leadership development and recreation. Students will gain insight into the operations of member-owned public power electric systems while working alongside industry professionals, adult counselors, and junior counselors—former campers who return to take on leadership roles.
Hands-On Learning & Leadership
From day one, campers become active participants in a simulated electric power district, electing a board of directors that oversees operations. The board selects a general manager to facilitate communication between counselors and campers, ensuring smooth decision-making throughout the week. Students can also compete in the Ambassador competition or take on key roles within various camp committees, enhancing their leadership skills and teamwork abilities.
A highlight of the camp includes a tour of Nebraska’s energy infrastructure, featuring visits to the Kingsley Hydro Station at Lake McConaughy and the Gerald Gentleman Station, the state’s largest coal-fired power plant at Sutherland.
For those looking to take their experience to the national level, the camp offers an opportunity. Three students from the Ambassador competition will earn a fully funded trip to Washington, D.C., representing Nebraska at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour. To be considered, campers must submit an application, give a self-introduction speech, and deliver a five-minute speech on an assigned topic. Their peers will then vote for the top male and female candidates, along with the next highest vote-getter, to serve as Ambassadors.
The top six finalists will also be invited to return next year as junior counselors.
While the camp is packed with educational experiences, it’s also a place for fun and making lifelong friends. Students can participate in basketball, volleyball, and swimming, as well as tackle a rock climbing wall and adventure course. These activities foster teamwork, confidence, and lasting friendships.
How to Apply
This exciting opportunity is open to high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors whose families are consumers of NREA member-systems. Camp costs and transportation are covered by sponsoring rural electric systems, making it an accessible and invaluable experience for young leaders interested in energy and leadership.
To learn more or apply for the NREA Youth Energy Leadership Camp, contact your rural electric utility. Don’t miss this chance to spark your leadership journey in the energy industry!