Critical Action Lab
Applications for next year's fellowship are now open! See below for more information and how to apply.
Teens using critical thinking to create change in their communities.
What is the Critical Action Lab?
The Critical Action Lab (CAL) is a paid internship program for teens passionate about climate action. CAL Fellows apply critical thinking skills as they work together to plan activities designed to engage their peers in spreading awareness about climate change and learning how to take action in their communities.
The first group of CAL Fellows began work in Fall 2023! They have designed and hosted a series of activities, including an annual Youth Climate Summit, teen game nights, a climate fair, and school outreach presentations.
What Does it Take to be a Critical Action Lab Fellow?
The Critical Action Lab program is designed to support dedicated, driven teens who are witnessing the effects of climate change on the world around them and want to do something about it. Through the program they are provided with the resources and learn the skills needed to make an impact.
The Fellows meet weekly on Thursdays to discuss and plan activities aimed at community building and helping other teens learn how to take action on issues that matter to them. Meetings include a mix of in-person and virtual gatherings, in addition to field trips throughout the year!
Interested in Joining?
Applications for the 2025-26 cohort are now open! This is a paid fellowship for high school students ages 14-18 that will last from September 4, 2025 to June 26, 2026.
Fellows can anticipate a time commitment of 10-12 hours per month. This program focuses on building critical thinking skills and encouraging other teens to engage in climate action through events hosted at the museum and other outreach projects planned by the fellows! Activities during the fellowship will include, but are not limited to, weekly meetings, field trips, professional development workshops, event planning, and skills-sharing sessions with fellows from other organizations across the country!
Applications are open now until July 28, 2025! Apply by clicking on the button below. After applications close, we will hold interviews during the second week of August. You can expect to receive a response regardless of whether you are selected for an interview or not.
Questions about the Critical Action Lab Program?
Please email us to learn more.
Sign up here to receive email updates about the program and our activities.
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