What is a JET?
The theme of the City Kids program for high schoolers (JETs) is “create your vision.” JETs build skills for the future while exploring the aspects of professionalism, outdoor leadership, and post-graduation opportunities that interest them most. But what exactly is a JET?
High school participants choose their own summer adventures– they can develop their professional skills with job shadows and internships, step into a camp leadership role as a JET Camp Leader, take on the mental and physical challenge of backpacking the Teton Crest Trail and climbing Grand Teton, or venture out of the City Kids community and try new things with NOLS, Outward Bound, or Wilderness Adventures.
JET stands for Job Experience Trainee, and for the youth involved, it means much more than just the cohort level for 10th-12th graders at City Kids. JETs take on responsibility, leadership, and model the lessons and skills they’ve developed as previous campers. JETs are peer leaders and inspire younger participants who are still on their journey through the camp program. They become ambassadors of the program, embodying values of professionalism, confidence, and leadership.
In a recent workshop, a group of JETs put their communication skills to work in a brief interview to share their experiences. We asked the JETs about their experiences in the program and what it means to be a JET.
According to Kwasi, 12th grade participant, a JET is “A role model, a leader, having someone’s back.” Don’Zeal, 12th grader, shared that, “being a JET Camp Leader is like having an understanding of your strengths and weakness, and how to grow beyond your outcomes, or what you think your limits are.” Rashad, 12th grade, sees the role as a chance to try new things and explore career interests while carrying the values of the program forward.
The Career Exploration and Intern tracks of the JET program offer year-round programming focused on professional development, career exploration, and future planning. Participants engage in job shadows and internships in various businesses in Jackson Hole, gaining exposure to different career paths and developing essential skills such as financial literacy and effective communication.
When asked about their internship preferences, the responses varied widely, reflecting the diverse interests of the participants.
Adrienne, an 11th grader, specifically gave a “shoutout to One22” sharing her rewarding experience there, where she found joy in helping others and making a meaningful impact. Rashad expressed his passion for art and desire to intern at a tattoo shop, sharing, “I’ve actually been trying to look for an apprenticeship in the city and it’s been hard, so I feel like getting the experience would be really nice, especially for my career.” Don’Zeal aims to “do something for the whole community” through a program like City Kids, emphasizing his desire to make a difference beyond just youth-centered initiatives.
Aside from career aspirations, the JETs also spoke about personal growth and the impact of the program on their lives. Adrienne highlighted the transformative experiences she had through City Kids, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing new challenges. Her message for future JETs resonated with the essence of the program – to encourage youth to seize opportunities, push boundaries, and live life to the fullest.
In essence, the JET program is more than just internships, college and career readiness trainings, and outdoor adventures; it’s a catalyst for growth, an environment for youth-driven exploration, and a symbol of endless possibilities.
