Applications are open! Apply today!
What you will learn
Through the Climate Leaders Program, all students will earn a Carbon Footprinting Certificate from University of New Hampshire. By the end of the Climate Leaders Program, all participants will be able to:
- Interpret and explain the components of a greenhouse gas inventory.
- Explain three to five strategies an organization could implement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Identify the factors that influence the feasibility of any given emissions reduction strategy.
- Critique and prioritize emissions reduction strategies based on multiple factors such as emissions reduction impact, feasibility, social implications, and stakeholder feedback.
- Explain how holistic community engagement is necessary for climate action.
- Demonstrate effective interpersonal communication techniques.
- Develop a professional written report.
- Develop and give an oral presentation for multiple audiences.
The Climate Data Analysts will also be able to:
- Analyze data to create a greenhouse gas inventory for an organization.
- Interpret greenhouse gas data and communicate results to a lay audience through data visualizations.
The Climate Engagement Specialists will also be able to:
- Implement a process for soliciting stakeholder input on a greenhouse gas emissions reduction plan.
- Build relationships and facilitate an advisory group to collect qualitative feedback.
The Climate Leaders Program will also help participating students strengthen their NACE career readiness competencies: career & self development, communication, critical thinking, equity & inclusion, leadership, professionalism, teamwork, and technology.
Eligibility & Expectations
Applicants must be enrolled (6+ hours) UT Austin undergraduates for both fall and spring semesters. The Climate Leaders Program is open to ALL majors. The hourly pay rate is $15/hour. Participants must be able to:
- attend a day-long, in-person Climate LEAP Launch on Friday August 23
- attend twice weekly meetings Mondays and Wednesdays 11:00am-1:00pm during the fall semester - these meetings will be a mix of in-person and virtual, but mostly in-person
- attend weekly meetings during the spring semester (dates/times TBD)
- commit ~8 hours per week to the program (including work during and outside of meetings) from late August through May (not including semester breaks)
Students interested in the Climate Data Analyst role should have some experience with and a strong interest in:
- using Excel to organize and analyze data
- creating graphs and other visual representations of data
- thinking critically to assess information
Students interested in the Climate Engagement Specialist role should have some experience with and a strong interest in:
- public speaking and presenting
- professional interpersonal communications (written and verbal)
- engaging with a wide range of people
Application Process
Applications for the 2024-25 cohort will close May 31,2024 at 11:59pm. Apply now.
We especially encourage students interested in climate-related careers to apply. Whether you are interested in data analysis/strategy or communications/outreach or both - this program is for you! We are looking for diverse skill sets!
Selection criteria include:
- Degree to which the program aligns with and supports the student’s career goals
- Preparedness for the program (including academics, data analysis or communications skills, leadership experience or potential, climate change experience, work ethic, professionalism, etc.)
- Commitment to the Climate Leaders Program and climate change solutions
- Brings a unique perspective to the program
- Strength of professional/academic reference(s)
Please contact climateleaders@austin.utexas.edu with any questions about the UT Climate Leaders Program.