Teens Learn About the Electric Grid, Gain Practical Life Skills & Form Friendships
Story and photos by Dianna Troyer
During a weeklong summer leadership camp, teens representing United Electric Co-op enjoyed a spontaneous meeting with 1 of Idaho’s top leaders.
While touring the Capitol, they met Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, who had come to his office to write a press release about the Idaho National Laboratory’s role in developing small modular nuclear reactors as a 24/7 reliable source of electricity.
When he learned the teens were attending a program about leadership and electrical production, he opened the Senate Chambers and gave an impromptu tour.
“The Idaho National Laboratory will play a key role in developing nuclear reactors for our nation’s future,” he told them.
In July, the teens were among more than 90 participants from throughout the Northwest to attend the Idaho Consumer- Owned Utilities Association Youth Rally at Northwest Nazarene College.
Keeping in mind the camp’s theme of “Keep Powering Forward,” teens were inspired by motivational speakers, learned about electricity, co-ops, and careers within the utility industry, watched a safety demonstration, performed in a talent show, spent a day at a water park, attended a formal banquet and dance, earned scholarships, and made lifelong friendships.
Presenters also spoke about suicideprevention awareness and the fatal mistake of texting while driving. They shared practical tips about car maintenance and finances.
Award-winning wrestler Ben Kjar reminded them to “call your shot,” have the mindset of a champion, and be a victor, not a victim, when setting lifelong goals.
Born with a rare genetic disorder affecting the growth of his skull bones, Ben endured taunting from his peers and numerous surgeries. Even so, he became an alternate for the 2012 U.S. Olympic wrestling team.
Malan Erke, representing the Jae Foundation, spoke about suicide prevention. The nonprofit in Twin Falls is named for Jae Bing, who died by suicide in 2016. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for those ages 10 to 34.
To raise suicide-prevention awareness, the foundation gives away boots as a reminder to check in on friends and family. During the event, Malan encouraged everyone to take 5 minutes for a “boot check” by reaching out to someone they care about.
Teens sponsored by United Electric Co-op recount their most memorable takeaways from the rally.
Tyler Abenroth, a returning director, says the most memorable and gratifying aspect of the rally is all it has taught him.
“Ben reminds us all to take our best shot,” he says. “For me, it’s about being able to put myself out there and be comfortable speaking in public. Being with so many amazing, supportive people gives me confidence.”
He says for his best career shot, he plans to become a physical therapist or Air Force pilot.
Coulson Bliss says the motivational speakers encouraged him.
To call his own shots, he plans to become an electrical engineer.
“Electricity is fascinating and something we all take for granted, but we can’t live without,” he says. “You think of its production from a tiny scale of individual particles to huge power systems used worldwide. I’m planning to go to Brigham Young University-Idaho, and we’ll see where my interests lead.”
He supports nuclear energy.
“Nuclear energy will definitely play a major role in the future of our electric grid,” he says. “It’s amazing how particles so small can create so much power. We need to keep hydropower, too.”
Madeline Serr says it was a highlight to meet Ben in person after she had seen a video of him during a church meeting.
“I’ll always remember his reminders to have the mindset of being a victor and not a victim and to call your shots in life,” Madeline says.
His comments reinforce the importance of having a positive mindset and a healthy mental outlook throughout life.
“I loved how the Jae Foundation uses cowboy boots as a symbol of positive mental health and a reminder to keep in touch with family and friends, to check on them and remind them they are loved and matter,” she says. “Hearing both those talks encourages me to have a career in psychology to help people overcome struggles and hardships.”
Natalia Yearsley, a returning director, says people should remember how their lives ripple outward to impact others, a nod to Shauna Sauer’s presentation.
Send be the End,” on the impacts of texting and driving.
In 2012, Shauna’s daughter, Taylor, died after an accident caused by texting and driving. Taylor rear-ended a slow-moving tanker truck and died instantly.
“You have more of a connection to others than you might realize,” Natalia says.
After high school, Natalia plans to serve a mission for her church. “Then I’d like to have a career in graphic design,” she says.
Maggie Durrant says she will always remember to check on loved ones after hearing the Jae Foundation PowerPoint.
“It was a powerful presentation,” she says.
With Ben’s advice to take her shot in mind, Maggie hopes to accomplish her dream of having a career in medicine and becoming an eye doctor.
Throughout the week, observers scored students for participation, communication, personal growth, and leadership. At the end of the week, students were awarded outstanding achievement awards and scholarships totaling more than $10,000.