Learning doesn’t stop when summer begins — and for 44 high school students from across North Carolina, it led all the way to the nation’s capital. Thanks to support from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives, these students had the chance to dive into history and explore how they can help shape the future.

Each June, the co-ops sponsored the students to attend NRECA’s annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., where they joined more than 1,600 students from 44 states.

The weeklong experience gave delegates the opportunity to take in the sights of D.C. while expanding their horizons — equipping them with new knowledge and deepening their understanding of electric cooperatives.

Stumpf on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. Photo Credits: Mark Finkenstaedt

“I live in a small town, and my cooperative, Central Electric, has a beneficial and visible role in the community,” said Jude Stumpf, who attended the trip and was selected by his peers to be North Carolina’s Youth Leadership Council (YLC) representative. “I came to the trip with a positive impression of the cooperative model. The trip, however, really taught me how cooperatives are different and how this model best serves its members in communities like mine.”

In addition to visiting monuments, museums and historic sites, the group spent time on Capitol Hill — touring the U.S. Capitol and meeting with staff from North Carolina’s congressional delegation. There, they discussed civic engagement and careers in public service while gaining a firsthand look at how our government works.

An Unforgettable Experience

When Stumpf applied for a Youth Tour scholarship from Central Electric, he wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but he was excited because he has long been interested in government, history and travel. He had seen the support his local electric cooperative provides throughout his community, with his teachers receiving Bright Ideas education grants and peers awarded scholarships for college and youth camps.

What ensued was a trip that Stumpf said he will always remember — one that showed him firsthand how cooperatives step up to provide opportunities to youth.

“In one word, this trip was unforgettable. The Youth Tour exceeded all my expectations,” said Stumpf. “There was something for everyone, and often all in one day. I’m so grateful to have represented my local electric cooperative, and I thank them for making sure we had a week that was both educational and enjoyable.”

Stumpf’s fellow delegates selected him to serve as North Carolina’s YLC representative — a yearlong leadership role that includes representing North Carolina’s electric cooperatives at NRECA’s PowerXchange conference and the opportunity to compete for the title of national YLC delegate. He will also collaborate with Youth Tour representatives from across the country.

“I met so many incredible teens during the Youth Tour and being selected as the NC YLC by my peers is a true honor,” said Stumpf. “I’m looking forward to learning more about electric cooperatives alongside my fellow YLCs. I hope to grow as a leader, organizer, advocate, speaker and listener. I’m excited to represent North Carolina and serve.”

Investing in the Next Generation

Youth programs like the annual trip to D.C. are part of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives’ mission to build a brighter future for the communities they serve. By providing opportunities like these, students are able to see the possibilities that lie ahead.

Photo Credits: Mark Finkenstaedt

“By offering meaningful learning experiences like the Washington, D.C., Youth Tour to local students, we’re not only helping them build valuable skills, but also inspiring their curiosity about cooperatives, building their confidence and providing them a sense of what’s possible for their future,” said Eddie Oldham, CEO and general manager of Central Electric. “Our hope is that Youth Tour participants gain a better understanding of the cooperative business model, while also forming lifelong connections with other youth who share a passion for learning.”

Reflecting on the trip, Stumpf said what stood out most wasn’t just the sightseeing. It was learning how essential electric cooperatives are — in North Carolina and beyond.

“Cooperatives keep communities connected and take pride in serving everywhere — from small towns like mine to rural and remote areas,” said Stumpf. “Electric cooperatives invest in people. You’re not just a customer; you’re a member.”

High school students interested in applying for next summer’s Youth Tour can find more information at ncelectriccooperatives.com/community/youth-tour.