As more than 250,000 Michigan teens prepare to enter the workforce this summer, employers across the state have an opportunity to do more than fill seasonal positions. By creating meaningful early career opportunities for young workers during Youth Employment Month and beyond, employers can help strengthen Michigan’s future talent pipeline, support long-term workforce growth and encourage more young people to build their careers and their futures in Michigan.

“Our young people have a big impact on our economy, and we want to make sure they have the tools they need to be successful from day one on the job,” said Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). “When employers invest in young workers, they are investing in Michigan’s future workforce — creating opportunities for young people to gain valuable experience, build in-demand skills and become the next generation of talent our employers need to thrive.”

According to the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget, approximately 252,500 Michiganders ages 16-19 are expected to participate in the labor market during summer 2026, with more than 207,000 projected to be employed. Industries including retail, hospitality, food service and recreation continue to offer many of the state’s most accessible entry-level opportunities.

For many young people, a first job is their introduction to the world of work and a pivotal moment in developing skills, confidence and direction. When employers create meaningful opportunities for youth, they help them discover career pathways, gain hands-on experience and explore industries they may not have otherwise considered.

“LEO partners with employers, schools and community organizations to ensure youth gain hands-on experience in high-demand industries, build professional networks, and develop skills that will serve them for years to come,” said LEO Workforce Development Director Krista Johnson. “Providing actual, roll-up-your-sleeves job experiences supports our future workforce and places them on a path to achieve lifelong economic success right here in Michigan.”

To support their career planning, youth are encouraged to explore Pathfinder – Michigan’s free online resource for career and education exploration. By using current labor market trends, wage data and education metrics, Pathfinder helps young people build personalized roadmaps that connect them with career and education opportunities.

LEO offers programs that promote equal access to career exploration and employment for youth with disabilities. Programs offered by the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) and Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) include BSBP Pre-Employment Transition Services,  BSBP Youth Low Vision Services and MRS Young Adult Services. MRS also provides training and technical support to businesses, helping to advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility for youth in the workplace.

Michigan Works! Agencies play an important role in connecting employers with young talent while helping youth prepare for employment through resume assistance, interview preparation, career coaching and job placement support. Through programs like Young Professionals and career exploration and experience events, LEO’s Michigan Works! partners help young people build workforce readiness, transferable skills and long-term career pathways. During the program year that ended June 2025, Michigan Works! Agencies hosted 27 large-scale career exploration and experience events throughout the state with more than 51,400 students and about 1,100 employers participating.

To further support youth employment opportunities, LEO recently launched the Youth Workers’ Rights Initiative, a statewide effort designed to help young Michiganders better understand workplace safety, wage protections, worker rights and how to successfully navigate their first jobs. The initiative reflects Michigan’s continued commitment to protecting workers at every stage of their careers — starting with their very first job – and includes online resources and educational materials.

To learn more about youth employment resources, visit Michigan.gov/YouthEmployment.