The climate movement can, and already has, benefited immensely from young, diverse voices pushing policymakers and companies to respond to climate threats.
As the generations that will bear the brunt of climate change impacts, young people are advocating for bolder policies, including phasing out gas-powered vehicles, restricting offshore drilling, and prioritizing alternative energy sources. To succeed in driving these reforms forward, these critical young voices will need to learn how to navigate the policy world. They must develop the skills to map the policy ecosystem and craft advocacy materials that resonate with current policymakers.
To support emerging climate leaders in their efforts to move climate policy, the Aspen Policy Academy is hosting a part-time, unpaid policy impact bootcamp for climate leaders between the ages of 21 and 30. Using the Aspen Policy Academy’s expertise in policy impact strategies, this course covers skills such as:
- Defining policy problems;
- Mapping policy stakeholders;
- Outlining and deciding on effective policy solutions; and
- Developing persuasive outputs to convince policy stakeholders.
This short course is accompanied by a series of events and activities aimed at deepening bonds within this community of rising leaders, in order to give them a network of peers and mentors across the country.
Before applying, please carefully review the Policy Impact for Emerging Climate Leaders details and eligibility below.
Deadline
Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 11:59pm PT
Timeline
October 22 – December 15, 2024: The application window is open.
Mid-January 2025: Participants are notified of their acceptance.
February 24–28, 2025: Policy Impact for Emerging Climate Leaders runs, with daily sessions from 8:30 – 10:30am PT / 11:30am – 1:30pm ET
March 12, 2025: Optional recap session from 8:30 – 10:30am PT / 11:30am-1:30pm ET.
Eligibility
We are looking for emerging climate experts between the ages of 21 and 30 who are interested in learning about policy impact and advocacy. Strong applicants will have some professional experience working in the climate space, but will be new to thinking about policy impact and advocacy. Example professional backgrounds may include climate communications professionals, product designers, program managers, and scientists.
Applicants must be participating in the course in their personal capacity. Because this program is for people who want to impact US policymaking, you must either live or be able to work in the United States.
Applicants must be able to commit to 5 daily 2-hour virtual sessions during the course dates, as well as preparing several policy communications assignments outside of class.
Where and When
The virtual course is scheduled for February 24–28, 2025.
Participants will attend daily 2-hour sessions from 8:30 – 10:30am PT / 11:30am – 1:30pm ET.
There will be an optional recap session on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 8:30 – 10:30am PT / 11:30am – 1:30pm ET.
