Pioneer Electric’s Youth Tour Program gives local high school students the opportunity to experience leadership, learn about cooperatives and make lasting memories through two all-expenses-paid trips.
In 2026, three local students — Talia Flores and Audriana Peña of Ulysses and Katelynn Burger of Stanton County — traveled to Washington, D.C., for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Tour. From June 13-19, students visited the U.S. Capitol, White House, Arlington National Cemetery, monuments and museums. They also heard from speakers and met with Kansas Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall.
For Flores, the trip was more than just a chance to visit Washington, D.C. She said she felt “blessed” to have such an amazing opportunity to make connections, meet new friends and see some of the country’s greatest sights.
Burger said she had a fun time exploring famous monuments, meeting Kansas senators and getting to know other students from across the country.
“This trip was such an amazing experience for me,” Burger said, adding that she hopes to use what she learned in her everyday life and future.
Two other local students, Ruben Rodriguez of Ulysses and Manny Gonzalez of Lakin, attended Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, July 10-16. About 80 students from Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and Wyoming attended the camp.
At camp, students learned how cooperatives operate by creating and managing a mock candy cooperative. They also took part in leadership activities, rafting, volleyball, swimming, a talent show and other activities.
Rodriguez said the camp was both fun and meaningful, giving him the chance to learn about leadership, teamwork and working together while making new friends and creating memories.
“From learning new things to laughing and having fun together, this experience was one I will always be grateful for,” Rodriguez said.
Pioneer Electric covers the cost of both trips, including travel, lodging, meals and airfare for the Washington, D.C., trip.
Applications for the 2027 Youth Tour trips will open this fall. Sophomores and juniors attending school in Ulysses, Hugoton, Moscow, Rolla, Elkhart, Syracuse or Lakin are eligible to apply. Students complete an online application, and top applicants are interviewed before four students are selected.
For more information, contact Alyssa Hammond at Pioneer Electric at 620-424-5286 or ahammond@pioneerelectric.coop.
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