The Summer Job Season: A Launchpad for Teen Careers in Mid-Michigan
As the school year draws to a close, a new chapter begins for teenagers across mid-Michigan: the summer job season. For many young people, these jobs are not just a means to earn some extra spending money; they serve as a vital stepping stone toward building a successful career. With the right guidance and opportunities, summer employment can equip teens with essential skills that will benefit them in the long run.
The Importance of Summer Employment
In a rapidly changing job market, the value of summer work cannot be overstated. According to hiring firm Challenger Gray and Christmas, over one million teens found summer jobs last year. However, this number represents a concerning trend; teen employment has been on a downward trajectory for years. Last summer, only about 40 percent of teens in the U.S. participated in summer work, a stark contrast to the 65 percent employment rate recorded in 1978.
Despite these statistics, experts like Rhetta Hunyady, vice president of education and training at the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, emphasize the importance of summer jobs. "A summer hustle today can benefit teens down the road," she explains. The skills acquired during these formative work experiences—such as effective communication, customer service, and problem-solving—are invaluable as teens transition into adulthood and the workforce.
Skills Development Through TeenQuest
To help prepare local youth for the challenges of the job market, the Genesee Chamber of Commerce offers the TeenQuest program. Hunyady oversees this initiative, which focuses on equipping teens with the necessary tools for success. "We take them through resume and application preparation, but also how to prepare yourself for an interview," she notes.
The TeenQuest program is designed to provide comprehensive pre-employment and leadership training. It aims to instill confidence in participants, ensuring they are well-prepared to face potential employers. Hunyady emphasizes that while employers will teach teens the specifics of their roles, the most crucial attribute they seek is a positive attitude. "Don’t expect to know exactly how to do the job," she advises. "What employers want is something they can’t teach you."
Free Career-Based Events This Summer
This summer, the Genesee Chamber of Commerce is hosting a series of free events aimed at helping teens develop career-based skills. These workshops will cover various topics, including effective communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution—skills that are essential in any workplace.
Registration is now open for the TeenQuest summer session, which will run from July 9 to August 2, Monday through Thursday, from 1-4 p.m. This program is open to teens aged 14-19 who are entering grades 10-12 in the 2018-2019 school year. It provides an excellent opportunity for young people to gain valuable experience and insights into the working world.
How to Get Involved
Families interested in enrolling their teens in the TeenQuest program can find more information and register for the free program by visiting the Genesee Chamber of Commerce’s website. Click here for more details.
Conclusion
As summer approaches, it is essential for teens in mid-Michigan to seize the opportunity to gain work experience. Not only do summer jobs provide a chance to earn money, but they also lay the groundwork for future career success. With programs like TeenQuest available, local youth have access to the resources and training they need to thrive in the 21st-century workplace. By embracing these opportunities, teens can develop the skills and confidence necessary to navigate their future careers successfully.