Trook Apprenticeship in Environmental Education

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. This is a full-time (40 hrs/week) , seasonal position that begins June 8 and ends August 14, 2026. Work hours are typically Monday-Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm. There is a five-day mandatory training June 8-12, 2026. Apprentices must be available to work at least seven full weeks of camp from June 15-August 14, 2026. This is a non-exempt, full-time, seasonal position. Pay is $18 per hour; apprentices receive additional pay for overnight programs. Discounts on items in the ACES gift shops and on ACES classes. 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. 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. 2026 applications will be available February 1, 2026. 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 3, 2026 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. 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.” Trook Apprenticeship in Environmental Education June 8–August 14, 2026 Information About ACES Staff Board Contact Us Reports & Financials Partners Corporate Sponsors Privacy Policy Opportunities Work At ACES (Careers) Locations Hallam Lake Rock Bottom Ranch Catto Center at Toklat Newsletter Sign Up First Name Last Name Email (required) * Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from ACES. (You can unsubscribe anytime)