Nine teens whose parents or guardians are members of the local electric cooperative will be selected to attend the event, which takes place in Tustin, MI (20 miles south of Cadillac). This unique, high-energy gathering brings youth from across the state together to help develop budding leadership and teamwork habits.

Attendees explore career opportunities in the electric utility industry, learn how to be actively involved in the democratic process that governs electric co-ops, and even get to climb a power pole. The event also includes information on energy efficiency and electrical safety.

Past participant Brandon Gregg of Edwardsburg reported, “My mom made me go. It was kind of like, ‘Wow, an electric camp?’ But it was not what I thought. It was a great experience!”

Great Lakes Energy covers costs for all nine of its YLS participants, including food and lodging at the 4H Kettunen Center, as a way of helping develop new leaders in the communities the electric co-op serves. It’s part of Great Lakes Energy’s commitment to the community, one of the seven principles that guide electric cooperatives.

Out of nine Great Lakes Energy student representatives who attend YLS, chaperones select six for an all-expense-paid trip to Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. June 16-21. More details about this event can be found at miyls.com/youth_tour.html.

Applications are due March 16. Students can apply for the Youth Leadership Summit online by visiting gtlakes.com/youth-programs/teen-trips/ or by calling 888-485-2537 ext. 8174.

Great Lakes Energy is a member-owned electric cooperative serving more than 125,000 members in 26 counties throughout western Michigan.