Younger workers want to secure meaningful opportunities in the labor market, yet they often face challenges such as unstable job prospects, wage stagnation, and limited career advancement. As industries such as health care and energy grow, their need for new workers becomes increasingly urgent. Young workers, particularly those ages 18 to 24, represent a valuable talent pool capable of driving these sectors forward, but many available jobs fall short of providing the skill development, career pathways, and job quality necessary for them to thrive.

New evidence can inform how employers, policymakers, workforce practitioners, and advocates design quality jobs and career pathways that provide young workers with training and support that match their specific abilities and needs. Attracting and retaining a new generation of workers is critical for young workers and employers alike.