Are you a high school or college student passionate about learning outside? Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES), a nationally recognized leader in environmental education for people of all ages, is hiring for a paid summer position!
The ACES Trook Apprenticeship in Environmental Education is a hands-on learning and training program for high school and college students interested in pursuing a career in education or the environment. During the apprenticeship, you will support weeklong summer camps, be mentored by ACES Education staff, explore field sites, and meet local professionals. You will learn in community about the different aspects of environmental education.
ACES Summer Camp programs serve children entering grades K-8. Paired with an ACES Educator, ACES Trook Apprentices assist with the supervision of campers and daily management of camp activities, including hiking, arts and crafts, science investigations, and more. These responsibilities are complemented by additional learning opportunities that may require occasional evening obligations. Upon completion of this program, Apprentices will feel confident and knowledgeable about a range of education and environmental careers and skill sets.
This program is inspired by, and in memory of, former ACES Education Director Arin Trook.
Highlights
- Support and help teach ACES Summer camps.
- Plan a 3-day “Reflecting on Pathways” backpacking trip with fellow Apprentices (July 1-3, 2024).
- Connect, experience, and learn from local professionals focused on environmental education and sustainability. Understand their career requirements, pathways, and experiences.
- Participate in organized educational opportunities and experiences about sustainable architecture and design, environmental education, regenerative agriculture, and habitat conservation.
- Engage in hands-on outdoor leadership training and field science.
- Develop communication and teaching skills.
- Discover the power of storytelling and shared experiences.
- Become part of an ever growing network of past apprentices, community leaders, and the ACES family!
Dates of Apprenticeship
This is a full-time (40 hrs/week), seasonal position that begins June 17 and ends August 9, 2024. Work hours are typically Monday-Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm. There is a four-day mandatory training June 17-18 and 20-21, 2024. Apprentices must be available to work at least six full weeks of camp from June 24-August 9, 2024.
Compensation
Pay is $120 per day; apprentices receive additional pay for overnight programs.
Housing
Housing is not provided. Applicants that do not already have housing in the Roaring Fork Valley should be aware that securing housing here during the summer can be extremely difficult.
Location
Rock Bottom Ranch (RBR) apprentices are based at ACES’ 113-acre working ranch located in Basalt, Colorado. Hallam Lake (HL) apprentices are based at ACES’ 25-acre nature preserve located in Aspen, Colorado.
Application Process
Please click the “Apply” button for the full job description and to apply through BambooHR. Hiring will occur on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted through April 8, 2024 or until positions are filled. In your cover letter, please tell us why you are interested in the Trook Apprenticeship. Your resume can include relevant coursework, jobs you have held, extracurricular activities, certifications, etc.
About Arin Trook
Arin was a light in our community, an unforgettable educator, and an inspiring force for good throughout the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond. He championed environmental and social justice issues, and passionately worked to build community and inclusivity across boundaries through education and kindness. We will all strive to follow in Arin’s footsteps and carry forward the spirit with which he led his life.
In the words of Arin, “perhaps the most radical action we can take today is the simple act of walking slowly through this wild world.”