Internship Program
Start building a career that makes a difference.
The Western Resilience Center Internship Program connects high school students, college students, and early-career professionals with meaningful, hands-on experience in regional climate action and nonprofit work. Interns contribute directly to projects that support community resilience across the West.
Who Should Apply
This program is a strong fit for:
- High school and college students, or recent graduates.
- Those interested in environmental work, climate solutions, or public engagement.
- Applicants from all backgrounds and identities, no previous experience required.
If you’re motivated to learn and ready to contribute, we encourage you to apply.
What You’ll Do
- Work closely with a staff mentor in their area of specialty.
- Design a self-led project that contributes directly to Western Resilience Center’s programs.
- Attend weekly meetings and events that build your professional skills.
- Present your final project and deliverables at the end of the 12 week program.
Program Terms
Spring 2026
- Application Window: December 18 – January 17
- Term: February 2 – April 24
- Time Commitment: 10–15 hours/week
- Paid hourly at $18/hr
Summer 2026
- Application Window: March 1-April 1, 2026
- Term: May 18 – August 7
- Time Commitment: 15–20 hours/week
- Paid hourly at $18/hr
Fall 2026
- Application Window: July 27- Aug. 25
- Term: September 14 – December 4
- Time Commitment: 10–15 hours/week
- Paid hourly at $18/hr
How to Apply
- Submit an online application
- Selected applicants will be invited to interview
- Internship offers will be sent via email
Application
Opens July 27 for Fall 2026. Applications due 11:59 p.m. Aug. 25.
From our past interns

Marguerite Pilon
“This project has given me the opportunity to combine my biggest passions and interests, and has given me the freedom to explore interdisciplinary connections between sustainability, climate change, and the arts. I have learned so much through the Western Resilience Center staff and have gained confidence in my work. I feel content in knowing my work has a positive impact on the Yampa Valley community and environments.”
Fall 2022, Spring 2023, Summer 2023

Thomas Cooper
“My internship made me feel empowered as an activist, gave me my first look into the world of nonprofit environmental advocacy, and taught me the tangible skills needed in my activism. The step by step, project based structure of the internship taught me how to organize and plan successful projects that make a concrete impact. As I continue to navigate the complex worlds of internships and activism, I rely on the skills I gained from Western Resilience Center to make myself stand out and make a difference.”
Summer 2022, Fall 2021

Sidney Barbier
“Overall, I feel like this internship was an amazing opportunity. I gained so much knowledge about the limitless opportunities in the field of sustainability and feel like I know have a guiding direction towards what I what to do. The internship provided me with a project that was fulfilling, engaging, and rewarding and allowed me to truly make a difference in the community. Everything from the deliverables to the outings was so incredible! Thank you!”
Summer 2022, Summer 2021
