Apply for YLC
Be the Voice of Iowa’s Electric Cooperative Youth!
Each year, one outstanding student is selected to represent Iowa on the Youth Leadership Council (YLC)—a national leadership group formed by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This is your chance to grow as a leader, connect with peers across the country, and make a lasting impact!
How to Apply
👉 Submit Your Application Here
Deadline: May XX, 2026
What You’ll Need to Do
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Complete the online application by the deadline.
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Record a short video (cell phone quality is fine!) answering:
“How does your local electric cooperative demonstrate the Cooperative Principles in your community?”
📤 Upload your video here: Dropbox Submission Link
Know the Seven Cooperative Principles
These principles are the foundation of every cooperative—and your video should reflect how your co-op lives them out:
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Voluntary, Open Ownership – Open to all, without discrimination.
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Democratic Owner Control – One member, one vote.
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Owner Economic Participation – Members share in the co-op’s financial success.
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Autonomy and Independence – Co-ops are self-governed.
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Education, Training, and Information – Co-ops invest in member education.
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Cooperation Among Cooperatives – Co-ops support each other.
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Concern for the Community – Co-ops work for sustainable community development.
Interview Process
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Zoom interviews will be scheduled between June 1–10.
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Final selection will be announced during Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.
💡 Pro Tip: Know the cooperative principles—they’ll come up in your interview!
Selection Criteria
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School & Community Involvement
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Extra-Curricular Activities
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Speaking Skills
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Cooperative Knowledge
Why Apply?
Being selected as Iowa’s YLC representative is a true honor—and comes with some amazing opportunities:
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$1,000 College Scholarship from the Pioneers Trust Fund
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Leadership Training in D.C. (July 2-24, 2026)
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Monthly Virtual Workshops (August - February)
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Speech Presentation at IAEC’s Annual Meeting (Dec. 2026)
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Attend PowerXchange & TechAdvantage in San Diego (XXX 2027)
Ready to lead? Apply today and take your place among the next generation of cooperative leaders! Need help with your video or application? Just reach out—we’re here to support you.
