Thirteen teenagers from across North Dakota gathered at the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives headquarters in Mandan before departing for Washington, D.C., for the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. Photo by NDAREC/Liza Kessel
For 13 North Dakota teens, the week of June 13-20 in Washington, D.C., became an experience they may never forget.
Representing electric cooperatives from across the state, the high school students joined a record-breaking 2,100 students and chaperones from 44 states, representing nearly 700 electric cooperatives, for the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. The annual leadership program introduces young people to the nation’s history, government and the cooperative business model.
The week included visits to some of the country’s most recognizable landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery and several Smithsonian museums. Students also toured memorials honoring veterans and civil rights leaders while learning the stories behind the places that helped shape the nation.
One of the week’s highlights was meeting with North Dakota’s congressional delegation. Students asked questions, discussed issues affecting the state and gained a better understanding of how Congress works.
Just as memorable were the friendships they formed with students from across the country.
Leadership activities, group discussions and shared experiences gave participants the chance to learn from people with different backgrounds while discovering the common values they share.
For many of the North Dakota participants, it was their first trip to Washington, D.C.
Seeing the monuments, museums and government buildings in person brought history to life in a way no textbook could.
The students returned home with more than photographs and souvenirs. They came back with a broader perspective, new friendships and a firsthand look at how democracy works – lessons they will carry long after the trip ended.
