Career Paths

Government in Action

Every citizen at Mountaineer Boys State takes on a role that shapes the life of the program. Career paths are the framework through which you’ll experience leadership, government, and community in action. From politics and law to banking, media, emergency services, business, and more, each path provides the opportunity to learn, serve, and contribute in meaningful ways.

As a citizen, you’ll hold a full-time job, earn a salary in ALMBS currency, and be responsible for fulfilling the duties of your position. These roles connect together—just like in the real world—to create a functioning city, county, and state government. Whether you choose to run for office, serve in the courts, manage finances, report the news, or protect the community, your career path will directly impact the success of Boys State and the experience of your fellow citizens.

Political

Citizens have the opportunity to run for elected office at the city, county, and state levels—ranging from Mayor and County Commissioner to Governor and Supreme Court Justice. Each participant receives guidance on campaigning and is encouraged to run for at least one position, gaining firsthand experience in leadership, public speaking, and civic engagement. Campaigns are built from scratch using ALMBS currency, ensuring a fair and creative process that reflects initiative and integrity.

Hired Position(s):

ALMBS State Superintendent of Schools Job Application

Legal

Citizens can pursue a hands-on legal career path by participating in a fully functioning court system overseen by legal professionals. All Citizens must take the ALMBS Bar Exam to qualify for key legal roles. Each county prepares and presents a court trial, evaluated by local attorneys, while additional cases are heard throughout the week. Legal positions are compensated in ALMBS currency and offer valuable experience in advocacy, constitutional rights, and courtroom procedure.

You must pass the ALMBS Bar Exam in order to be eligible to hold the offices of Attorney General, Justice of the Supreme Court, Prosecuting Attorney, Circuit Judge, and the position of Attorney. Each Citizen is permitted to retake the ALMBS Bar Exam by paying the $50 fee and sitting for the examination during the announced exam times.

ALMBS Law Lecture

Banking

Citizens can explore the banking career path by applying for roles within the ALMBS Bank, which teaches personal financial management and institutional operations. Positions offer hands-on experience in customer service, lending, and financial strategy. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon for those interested in joining the bank staff.

ALMBS Bank Job Application

Journalism

Citizens can join the journalism team to produce a daily print newspaper and nightly news broadcast that keep the community informed and engaged. Roles span both print and broadcast divisions. Participants gain hands-on experience in writing, media production, and visual storytelling, with all content published online for broader reach. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Journalism Job Application

Emergency Services

Citizens interested in public safety can apply to join the Office of Emergency Services, which includes a functioning fire department, EMS station, and 9-1-1 dispatch center. Participants attend the Emergency Services Academy for hands-on training in emergency response, communications, and fire safety—without engaging in dangerous activities. This demanding career path offers real-world insight into how government decisions impact emergency services, and is ideal for those pursuing futures as EMTs, dispatchers, firefighters, or emergency service directors. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Offce of Emergency Services Job Application

Corrections

Citizens interested in law enforcement and public safety can apply to serve in the Division of Corrections, which oversees the ALMBS Jail and Prison under staff supervision. Corrections Officers receive specialized training through the Corrections Academy and take on responsibilities that require focus, discipline, and long hours. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Division of Corrections Job Application

Law Enforcement

Citizens interested in law enforcement can apply to serve in the Division of Public Safety (State Police) or the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Law Enforcement Section. Participants attend a Police Academy and take on real-world responsibilities such as patrol, ceremonial duties, and public safety enforcement. These roles are ideal for those pursuing careers in policing, conservation enforcement, or public service, and require dedication, long hours, and limited participation in other activities. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Law Enforcement Job Application

Forensics Laboratory

Citizens interested in criminal investigation and scientific analysis can apply to serve in the Forensic Laboratory. This full-service lab supports ALMBS law enforcement by examining evidence, conducting crime scene investigations, and preparing reports for trial. Roles offer hands-on experience in evidence handling and courtroom procedure. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Forensics Laboratory Job Application

Homeland Security / National Guard

Citizens interested in defense and emergency coordination can apply to serve in the Homeland Security/National Guard component. Participants receive specialized training and carry out missions authorized by the ALMBS Governor, including ceremonial duties and command responsibilities. This demanding career path offers a $1,000 signing bonus in ALMBS currency and requires long hours, making it ideal for those committed to service and leadership. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Homeland Security / National Guard Job Application

Business Management & Marketing

Citizens interested in entrepreneurship, teamwork, and creative strategy can apply for roles in Business Management and Marketing. Participants operate the ALMBS General Store and lemonade stand, managing sales, logistics, finances, and advertising to support the program. Applications are available online and through cottage counselors, with interviews held Sunday afternoon.

ALMBS Business Management & Marketing Job Application

Extracurricular Activities

Building Community Through Shared Experience

Beyond career paths, every citizen at Mountaineer Boys State has the opportunity to participate in activities that strengthen teamwork, creativity, and camaraderie. These extracurriculars are the heartbeat of our community—bringing citizens together through shared passions and collective spirit.

Whether you’re singing in the choir, performing in the band, competing on the athletic field, or contributing to special interest groups, these experiences foster leadership in new dimensions. You’ll collaborate, celebrate, and grow alongside fellow citizens—learning how unity and purpose shape a thriving society.

From morning rehearsals to evening games, these activities build friendships, boost morale, and create unforgettable memories. They’re more than just fun—they’re foundational to the culture of Mountaineer Boys State, reinforcing the values of service, respect, and teamwork.

Americanism

Americanism is at the heart of Mountaineer Boys State, where citizenship isn’t just taught—it’s lived. Through hands-on government simulation, civic responsibility, and patriotic ceremonies, citizens gain a deeper appreciation for the Constitution, the principles of liberty, and the duties of active citizenship. The program fosters pride in country, respect for service, and a commitment to preserving the freedoms secured by generations of veterans.

Band

The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State traditionally has an excellent band. The band plays for assemblies, flag raising, Formal Review, political rallies, and other events. Each night, when time permits, an informal gathering of musicians occurs on the porch of Marion Cottage. This allows those interested to showcase their talents.

Choir

The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State traditionally has an excellent choir. The choir performs for assemblies, meals and other events. These talented individuals lead the camp in the camp song – Men of Tomorrow – a tradition that has been maintained throughout the history of the program. The choir also sings patriotic music at our Veteran’s Assembly.

Athletics

There are a variety of recreational opportunities at ALMBS to include intramural type athletic competitions where the ALMBS Counties compete against one another. The games that are played are one pitch softball, volleyball (hard court and sand court), basketball, and ultimate frisbee. Each County will have an Athletic Director whose responsibility will be to ensure that his county fields a team at the scheduled games.

Recreation

There is also a swimming pool, tennis court, gaga ball, a frisbee golf course, and walking/hiking/running trails.

Devotions

Non-denominational devotion services, under the guidance of staff members, are held nightly at the Chapel. Citizens who wish to participate are encouraged to do so. Citizens may volunteer to lead these services.