Austin Environmental Leaders

Austin Environmental Leaders is an initiative from Austin Youth River Watch designed to broaden our impact beyond High School graduation. The AEL program provides career readiness-skills to young adults aged 18+ in central Texas through intensive mentorship, professional development, and project-based learning.

Background

The AEL program was created after recognizing that many of our high school program alumni faced challenges in transitioning from high school to higher education or the workforce. We noticed that the support systems and resources available to them during high school often disappeared after graduation. To address this need, we launched the AEL program, specifically designed to continue supporting our alumni and other young adults from historically marginalized communities.

Purpose

The AEL program aims to provide career readiness and professional development opportunities to primarily BIPOC young adults, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to be independent adults and secure fulfilling jobs in the future..

Our program is uniquely tailored to meet the needs of BIPOC young adults, addressing the systemic barriers that have historically limited their access to high-wage jobs and leadership positions in STEM and other fields.

What Interns Can Expect

Personalized Mentorship

Weekly one-on-one meetings with a dedicated staff supervisor who provides guidance on setting and achieving personal and professional goals. Whether it’s financial literacy, applying for jobs, or developing other life skills, our mentors are here to support you every step of the way.

Professional Development Activities

Interns participate in resume building, mock interviews, professional communication practice, and networking events. We also help interns complete at least one informational interview and one job shadowing experience in their chosen field, offering real-world insights and valuable connections.

Project-Based Learning

Each intern has the opportunity to work on a semester-long project, allowing them to explore an area of interest while developing leadership skills and gaining relevant, marketable experience.

Financial Support

To ensure full participation, we pay interns $20 per hour,provide transportation support, meals on the job, and access to our weekly meal delivery service for their entire family.

Join Us

If you’re ready to be part of a program that values your unique experiences, supports your growth, and prepares you for future success, the Austin Environmental Leaders program is for you.

Interested in joining our program? Fill out the form below!

Spring 2026 Applications Will Open In Late November 2025

Meet Our Interns!

Estrella

AEL Intern

My name is Estrella Canepa; I am a student at Austin community collage, currently enrolled in a phycology minor in hopes of later using my knowledge of the human experience for a creative writing major. I have been In love with writing all of my life and hope to one day become a great writing teacher like all of those that have changed my life before and formed part of whom I am today. I want to one day help our future generations understand the world around them through creativity, kindness and intelligence. I promised my dad long ago to never give up trying to make the world a better than how I found it. Austin Youth RiverWatch is like a second home to me, I've been fortunate enough to be part of this experience as a student and now am here to get a taste of what it is like to be on the other end along with our staff and friends. It makes me happy that I can continue to be connected with my nature-head roots, now more than ever since most of my hours spent have sitting in front of a computer XD. I love being out in the wild and have been an advocate for a greener earth since the 4th grade (long story) @-@ I enjoy reading fantasy novels with a passion alongside playing video games, rock climbing, and learning about historic topics ranging from pre history to the 17th century.

Ja'Lexis

AEL Intern

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River Watch is a place where I am always loved and accepted. They are my family and I have no idea where I'd be without it.
UlisesEast Side Memorial High School, 2013

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When I found River Watch it reminded me of the saying, "home is where the heart is". With River Watch I am accepted, fun is never rejected and I am at home. Now my smile is 10 times wider and I couldn't be more happy.
NathanielEastside Memorial High School, 2013

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It was amazing to get out and make a positive contribution to the environment while still having fun.
AraceliTravis High School, 2019

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I love how this program makes people aware of the actions we as people make. It’s good to help out the environment because not many people do so.
OdalisTravis High School, 2019

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It is difficult to describe in words the importance of River Watch in my life. Most importantly, perhaps, has been a broadening of my horizons. I've come to appreciate the dirt beneath my feet and the water that cuts through the landscape.
MakaylaCrockett High School, 2014