Celebrating Youth Employment Month in Michigan
By Ryan Hundt
June is Youth Employment Month, a dedicated time to celebrate the achievements and potential of Michigan’s youngest workers.
Most of us recall our first jobs with some nostalgia, remembering even the most challenging work as something that helped shape our personal and professional growth. As a new generation of teens and young adults enters the workplace this spring, we know they’re taking their first steps toward something that will be truly life-changing.
Why Youth Employment Matters
Youth employment plays a vital role in personal and economic development. According to the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, the unemployment rate for people aged 16-24 in Michigan has seen fluctuations over the years, with a significant impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. As of the latest data, the youth unemployment rate in Michigan stands at approximately 9.2%, which is higher than the overall state unemployment rate of 4.3%.
We’d love to see more young people employed in Michigan for several reasons:
Jobs help youth develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Employed youth contribute to the economy through their earnings and spending.
Early work experience can lead to better job prospects and higher wages in the future.
Employment can improve self-esteem and reduce youth engagement in risky behaviors.
Opportunities for Youth in Michigan
Michigan Works! agencies stand ready to offer highly successful programs and initiatives to support youth employment. Some key opportunities include:
Summer Youth Employment Program: This initiative provides meaningful summer work experiences for young people in communities across the state. Participants gain hands-on experience and earn wages while contributing to their communities.
Apprenticeships and Internships: Many industries in Michigan offer apprenticeships and internships that provide on-the-job training and education. These programs are valuable stepping stones for young people entering the workforce and local Michigan Works! agencies can help young people connect.
YouthBuild: This program targets young people aged 16-24 who have not completed high school. Participants receive education, job training, and leadership development, focusing on the construction industry.
Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates is a highly successful school-to-work system for at-risk and disadvantaged young people. JMG works strategically with businesses, education, and community partners to build a skilled labor force for the future. Youth participants benefit from up to 120 hours of services, such as soft skill development, barrier removal, employment, and post-secondary planning. This program is offered in partnership with Youth Solutions.
Youth Employment Month in Michigan is a time to celebrate the potential of our young people and the opportunities available to them. By working together—youth, employers, and community members—we can create a brighter future for Michigan’s workforce and economy.
Let’s make this month a launchpad for the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals.