We’re sending THREE students from the Big Country to Washington, D.C., June 15–23, 2027!

Youth Tour has been a Texas electric cooperative tradition since 1965. Inspired by then-U.S. Sen. Lyndon B. Johnson, who encouraged young people to visit Washington, D.C., and experience their American heritage and government at work, electric cooperatives began sponsoring students for this unforgettable trip.

Educating and mentoring young people is part of electric cooperatives’ commitment to supporting the communities they serve. Since the 1960s, more than 4,000 Texans and 50,000 young Americans have participated in this special opportunity through their local electric cooperatives.

Now YOU have the opportunity to join the 2027 Youth Tour! Click the button below to apply!

It’s simple: submit your application below, and you’ll receive an email with instructions for uploading your video submission.

2027 Video Contest

To compete for a spot on the 2027 Government-in-Action Youth Tour, applicants will create an original video responding to the following topic:

What is one challenge facing rural communities today, and how can young people and their local electric cooperative help address it?

Choose an issue that is meaningful to you. Possible topics include economic development, reliable broadband, safety, education, population loss, affordability or community involvement. You may also discuss another challenge affecting rural communities.

Your video should:

• Identify and explain a challenge facing rural communities.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the cooperative business model and what makes an electric cooperative different from an investor-owned utility.
• Explain how young people and their local electric cooperative could help address the challenge.
• Present your own thoughtful, relevant and creative ideas.

Videos may be up to four minutes long. Submissions will be scored using the following criteria:

• Content and Knowledge — 70%
• Presentation Quality — 30%

Complete the application below to get started. After your application is received, you will receive an email with instructions for uploading your video.

Application deadline: Thursday, January 14, 2027
Video submission deadline: Thursday, January 28, 2027