SECO Energy Accepting Applications for the 2027 Youth Tour Leadership Program

SECO Energy is inviting current high school juniors to apply for its 2027 Youth Tour Leadership Program. The program will provide 12 selected students with an overnight educational experience in Tallahassee from February 10–11, 2027, where they will explore Florida’s government, history and energy industry.

Throughout the tour, selected students will visit the Florida State Capitol, the Florida Supreme Court, museums, and other local sites while learning about the legislative process and the value of rural electrification. Students will participate in mock sessions and meet with state representatives. Students will attend the Tallahassee Youth Tour at no cost. SECO Energy will cover all trip-related expenses, including transportation, hotel accommodations, and meals. 

To be eligible for the 2027 Youth Tour Leadership Program, applicants must be a current high school junior or homeschooled student at the junior level and live in a home served by SECO Energy. 

Following the Tallahassee Youth Tour, each student delegate will have the chance to compete for one of four fully sponsored spots to represent SECO Energy and the great state of Florida at the 2027 National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.

In June 2027, the four selected delegates will join students from cooperatives across the country for a weeklong tour of the nation’s capital. During this interactive learning experience, selected delegates will meet elected officials, develop leadership skills through hands-on activities and explore America’s most historic places, including the U.S. Capitol and Arlington National Cemetery. 

This trip is designed to help the next generation of leaders understand the important role electric cooperatives play in advocating for their members and representing rural communities across the country. 

“SECO Energy is proud to invest in the next generation of leaders through the Youth Tour Leadership Program,” said Curtis Wynn, CEO of SECO Energy. “This experience gives students a deeper understanding of government, civic engagement and the vital role electric cooperatives play in serving and advocating for their communities. We look forward to welcoming the 2027 student delegates and helping them build the knowledge, confidence and leadership skills they need to make a meaningful difference in Florida and beyond.”

“The NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., was an incredible experience, and I am extremely grateful to SECO Energy for the opportunity to attend. The activities were amazing and so much fun. From seeing our nation’s capital to learning more about government and leadership, each day brought something new and exciting. However, when I look back on the trip, the people I met and the connections I made stand out the most,” added Simmone Hymiller, a former student delegate who represented SECO Energy on the 2026 Tallahassee and National Youth Tour.

Applications for the 2027 Youth Tour Leadership Program are now open and will close on December 11, 2026. Winners will be notified by December 31, 2026. To apply, please visit SECOEnergy.com/Youth-Programs.

Youth Tour delegates who represented SECO Energy on the 2026 Tallahassee Youth Tour

From left to right: Hayleigh Turo, Makenzie Rees, Simmone Hymiller, and Valentina Escobar representing SECO Energy on the 2026 National Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.