The Ulster County Climate Corps, an innovative paid summer internship program spearheaded by County Executive Jen Metzger, has returned for its second year to advance climate initiatives across County departments. This year, Climate Corps interns will choose from amongmore than a dozen projects throughout County government that implement the County’s Climate Action Commitment and bolster community resilience to the impacts of climate change. The program runs from June 10 to August 16 and pays $17 per hour. The application window opens today, March 21, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through May or until the program is filled, whichever comes first. 

"We’re kicking off the second year of the Ulster County Climate Corps, and we’ve got a lot of exciting projects lined up for summer interns this year to reduce our impact on climate change and strengthen our resilience to its impacts,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “This is a great opportunity for students and residents eager to work on climate solutions and make a difference in their community, and will help them develop skills and experience for future careers in public service and the private sector.”  

“I was lucky enough to be chosen for the inaugural cohort of interns last summer, which provided a unique and dynamic experience for those who are interested in protecting and preserving the environment and want to make a difference locally. Throughout the program, we had the opportunity to play a direct role in crafting solutions while also participating in valuable professional development sessions to prepare us for our future careers,” said Naseem Haidaoui, former Ulster County Climate Corps Intern and current Ulster County Youth Worker. “I was also able to collaborate with and assist fellow interns as needed while working on our various projects across departments. Since the conclusion of my internship last summer, I’ve continued working with the County on a number of climate-focused initiatives and am excited to now be able to help coordinate this year’s internship program with what I’ve learned so far from my own experience.”

Aligned with the County's ambitious climate agenda and building upon the success of last year's efforts, Climate Corps projects span numerous County departments, including the Office for Aging, Veterans Services, Office of the County Executive, Public Works, Buildings and Grounds, Social Services, Economic Development, Emergency Management, Environment, Information Services, Planning, Purchasing, and Tourism. 

The program is open to high school (age 16 and up), college, and graduate students and interested community members. Through a blend of hands-on experience, professional development, and community engagement, interns will gain insights into public service and government operations while actively contributing to tangible climate solutions.

This year’s Climate Corps projects include:

• Energy Assistance Program Outreach for Seniors and Veterans

• Sustainability | EV Charging | Solar Infrastructure Municipal Grant Program

• Electric Vehicle Infrastructure for County Operations 

• Sustainable Ulster Residential Energy Efficiency Program

• Climate-Smart Small Business Support

• Community Wildfire Protection Plan

• Climate Change Adaptation Annex

• Climate Smart Communities

• Ulster County Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP)

• Greening Office Equipment Life Cycles

• Climate Initiatives Dashboard

• 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan Development - Ulster County Transportation Council (UCTC)

• Ulster County Sustainable Purchasing Program

• Sustainable Tourism Strategic Plan

• Nature Bus

To learn more about the Ulster County Climate Corps Program and this year’s application process, visit https://participate.ulstercountyny.gov/climate-corps.