KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has announced a new Ulster County Climate Corps internship program to give young people hands-on experience developing climate policies and programs. More information and the application for the program can be found at https://ulstercountyny.gov/climatecorps2023. 

The Ulster County Climate Corps is a paid, project-based summer internship program. Participants will be assigned to various County departments to help implement the County government’s climate and sustainability initiatives. The program’s six projects are aligned with the New York State Climate Smart Communities program actions as well as County Executive Metzger's Executive Order to meet the goals of the NYS Climate Act.  

This new program comes at a critical time as Ulster County positions itself to capitalize on the benefits of a green economy and attract thousands of new jobs in the manufacturing, buildings, transportation, renewable energy, and other green economy sectors. 

"As we face the challenges of climate change, we must empower the next generation of leaders to build a more sustainable and resilient future,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger.  “The Climate Corps offers young people a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in developing climate policies and programs while contributing to the County's efforts to meet our aggressive climate targets. I encourage young people who are passionate about the environment and public service to apply for this exciting program."

This internship program is part of a broader effort to recruit and cultivate the next generation for green careers and public service, reflecting the talents and diversity of our community. Interns will gain professional and practical experience in government, supplemented by skill-based training and guest speakers on topics related to the environment, project management, and public administration. Interns will also have opportunities to participate in community engagement and fieldwork.  

The projects include creating a Climate Justice Outreach Plan, supporting the Green Business Champions program, greening office equipment life cycles through sustainable purchasing, electrifying HVAC systems at all county buildings, creating a Climate Change Adaptation Annex for the County’s Emergency Management Plan, and creating a Climate Initiatives Dashboard with visual data and resources.

The program pays $17/hr and requires a commitment of a minimum of two days per week, up to a possibility of four days per week. Applications are now open and being accepted on a rolling basis, with a limited number of positions available. Participants must be age 16 & up, with no requirement that they are students. More information and the application for the program can be found at https://ulstercountyny.gov/climatecorps2023. 

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