Teens in Leadership Training (TILT) is a leadership and job readiness program for students 16-18 years of age. It gives teens the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful employees with the Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD), other city departments, or with our community partners.
Be a Leader
Students at area ISD high schools meet weekly to participate in ice breaker type games, team build, learn and discuss leadership topics, have opportunities to do internships, receive assistance filling out City of Austin job applications, receive help building a resume, interview tips, and receive CPR/First Aid certification training. Successful graduation from the program gives teens the opportunity to apply and interview for Activity Specialist, Junior Activity Specialist, and Lifeguard positions with the PARD in our Summer Playgrounds Program, Athletics or Aquatics Divisions.
When and Where
- Spring Semester at a PARD recreation center
- Weekly – usually Wednesdays / 4:45 - 6:00 pm
How to Register
A Parks and Recreation Participant Waiver Form can be emailed to you or the waiver form can be obtained from our TILT staff who will be on campuses for recruitment events at area ISD High Schools. You will also need to have two letters of recommendation and complete a letter of intent to be considered for the program. You can also contact us via email at TILT@austintexas.gov or by calling (512) 974-3922.
TILT Ambassadors
Graduates of TILT continue to develop their skills throughout the school year by participating in our TILT Ambassadors. The Ambassadors help at a variety of events hosted by different divisions within the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, such as Solar Day at the George Washington Carver Museum and the Green Careers Fest offered through the Cities Connecting Children to Nature's Emerging Green Leaders. Other Ambassador responsibilities include helping recruit future TILT participants from their schools as well as lead sessions to future TILT Ambassadors during our Spring semester.
