This is a space where the ideas, voice, and energy of the County's youth (aged 17 - 24) help shape the future. Whether you’re looking to get involved, learn about local programs, or find opportunities that matter to you, this is your page to connect, explore, and make a difference right here in your own community.

Sturgeon County hosts an annual Youth Emergency Services (YES) Academy. This is a unique, immersive experience for youth aged 14 to 17 who are interested in exploring careers in emergency services.

Held over three days (including two optional overnight stays), YES Academy offers a hands-on introduction to the world of first responders. Participants, referred to as recruits, take part in real-life simulations, physical training, team-building challenges and presentations delivered by professionals from a variety of emergency response disciplines.

Past activities have included:

• Presentations from EMS, STARS Air Ambulance, and other RCMP units;
• Firefighting drills at live training facilities;
• K9 demonstrations with RCMP Police Dog Services;
• Control tactics with local peace officers;
• Demonstrations and exposure to military gear and equipment.

Throughout the program, participants live the full academy experience, participating in physical training and learning to work as part of a team. Participants also have the option of staying overnight, but this is not a requirement. The structured environment encourages discipline, leadership, communication and personal growth, making this an ideal opportunity for youth who are curious about emergency services or eager to challenge themselves in a meaningful way.

YES Academy is more than just a camp—it’s a launchpad for future leaders and a powerful way to build community engagement with the next generation of emergency professionals.

Please note: youth who have attended in the past are welcome to apply again; however, priority will be given to new applicants.

Applicants must be prepared to participate in in-class learning and be willing and able to participate in physical fitness and activities for the duration of the academy. Emergency Services personnel will be present 24/7, chaperoning the academy. These individuals will have a recent (within 3 years) vulnerable sector security clearance or an enhanced security clearance.

Spend this summer gaining valuable leadership skills and work experience while leading children’s summer programming and day camps. Space is limited but all applicants will receive an opportunity for an interview.

Sturgeon County’s Job Experience Training program is for youth 12-17 years old. It is a volunteer program where youth will gain valuable leadership skills and work experience.

Keep an eye on this webpage in May for Summer 2026 Recruitment information.

JET volunteers help to lead Sturgeon County’s summer programs. Job duties include leading activities and games for children’s day camps, supervising day trips that include transportation, food, and admission to fun activities across the County and surrounding municipalities, and representing Sturgeon County at community events like County Bounty.

Work locations will vary with programming running across Sturgeon County, including Cardiff, Riviere Qui Barre, Calahoo, Coronado and other communities.

Note: JET Volunteers must provide their own transportation to the initial program location. Most locations are not accessible by public transit.

Sturgeon County's Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) plays an important role in researching and providing input into policy proposals, programs, and services. The Committee works with Sturgeon County staff to talk about things that are important to young people in the County and establish partnerships to ensure that different perspectives are reflected in the Committee’s initiatives.