Washington D.C. Youth Tour
YOUR TICKET TO D.C. STARTS WITH AN IDEA.
Two students from BEC member households will win an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
JUNE 17–24, 2027
BEC APPLICATION DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 19, 2026
CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS —
THIS ONE’S FOR YOU.
You could spend a week in Washington, D.C. with students from across Montana and the country—seeing the sights, making new friends, learning how our government works and experiencing places you’ve only seen in photos.
And yes—BEC pays for the trip.
Flights. Hotel. Charter bus. Tours. Meals. Even Youth Tour shirts are included. You’ll only need spending money for souvenirs and extra snacks.
All you need to bring is a suitcase, some curiosity—and your best idea.
WHY APPLY?
BECAUSE THIS IS WAY MORE THAN A SCHOOL TRIP.
Youth Tour brings together student leaders from rural communities across the country for one unforgettable week in the nation’s capital.
You’ll have the chance to:
SEE THE SIGHTS
Walk through some of the most famous places in American history.
MEET NEW PEOPLE
Travel with students from across Montana and meet Youth Tour delegates from around the country.
EXPERIENCE D.C.
Museums. Memorials. Government buildings. Historic sites. And plenty of moments you won’t find in a textbook.
MEET OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION
See government up close and ask questions of Montana’s elected representatives.
BUILD YOUR FUTURE
Youth Tour builds leadership skills, your network and experiences you can carry into college applications, interviews and whatever comes next.
AND HAVE FUN.
COULD THIS BE YOU?
You’re eligible to apply if you:
- are a current high school sophomore or junior
- reside in a BEC member household
- have not previously won Youth Tour
- meet the remaining 2027 contest requirements
HERE’S HOW TO ENTER
1. COMPLETE THE APPLICATION
Tell us a little about yourself, your school activities, leadership, community involvement and accomplishments.
You’ll also need a signed letter of recommendation from a principal, guidance counselor, teacher or community leader.
2. WRITE YOUR ESSAY
THE 2027 QUESTION:
If you could build a monument in Washington, D.C., who would you honor and why?
Your essay should be 500–1,000 words.
There isn’t one “right” person to choose. Pick someone whose life, leadership, courage, ideas or contributions matter to you—and tell us why.
3. SEND IT TO BEC
Deadline: November 19, 2026
Submit your completed application, recommendation letter and essay to:
Beartooth Electric Cooperative
PO Box 1110
1306 N. Broadway Ave.
Red Lodge, MT 59068
or email:
WHAT HAPPENS IF I WIN?
First: start packing.
Montana delegates begin with orientation in Great Falls. The group then flies together to Washington, D.C., where the next several days are packed with tours, museums, monuments, leadership experiences and meetings with Montana’s congressional delegation.
In 2026, 29 Montana students participated in Youth Tour.
Again In 2027, two of them will be from BEC country.
READY TO GO?
START HERE.
APPLICATION
Complete the 2027 BEC Youth Tour application.
CONTEST RULES
Check eligibility, essay requirements and everything you need to submit.
RESOURCE GUIDE
Learn more about Youth Tour, electric cooperatives and what to expect.
2027 YOUTH TOUR BROCHURE
Take a look at the experience, photos and trip highlights.
SEE THE TRIP APPLY NOW READ THE RULES GET THE RESOURCE GUIDE
ONE IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT YOUR ESSAY
Your essay should sound like you—because it needs to be your work.
QUESTIONS? WE’RE HAPPY TO HELP.
Not sure if you qualify? Have a question about the application or essay?
Kaaren Robbins
Member Communication & Services
406-446-2310
krobbins@beartoothelectric.com
YOU BRING THE IDEA.
BEC COULD TAKE YOU ALL THE WAY TO WASHINGTON, D.C.
GOOD LUCK!
NEED A LITTLE HELP GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR ESSAY?
These examples are from a different essay topic. But previous trip winners may inspire you how to structure your essay.