Staff Reports | Business & Commerce
According to new research from Junior Achievement teens are optimistic about their future careers and how the advancement in technology will impact them.
The Junior Achievement survey, funded by the Citizens organization, shows:
- 90% of teens are optimistic about their careers;
- 90% know the career they want to pursue;
- 80% of teens feel prepared to acquire new skills from technological advancements; and
- Nearly 40% of teens believe AI will provide new job opportunities, and 30% believe it will have no impact on their ability to get a job.
Junior Achievement research also illustrates how teens are open to non-traditional education paths and believe advanced technology may be more valuable than higher education degrees. About 49% of respondents say a high school degree, trade program, two-year degree, or other enrichment program is the highest level of education that will prepare them for their anticipated career path.
“As teenagers prepare to transition out of high school into their chosen career paths, we are working to help ensure they have access to the skill-building opportunities, advanced technology training, and experiences needed to help them thrive,” said Beth Johnson, vice chair of Citizens. “We partner with organizations like Junior Achievement to give young people the confidence and knowledge they need to feel prepared to pursue and achieve their career goals and successful financial futures.”
Both organizations, Junior Achievement and Citizens, are focused on supporting underserved communities and ensuring that all have an opportunity to be part of the workforce of the future.
Of Note: earlier this year Citizens provided a $415,000 grant to Junior Achievement USA to support financial empowerment programs that give people the confidence and tools they need to budget, save, invest, and pursue their goals.
“Despite concerns many have raised about the impact of AI on the future of jobs, these survey results show that most young people see opportunity in this emerging technology,” said Katherine Cecala, president, Junior Achievement of Arizona.
“JA is doing all we can to fuel kids’ optimism and prepare them to achieve or exceed their expectations when it comes to career and financial independence. Partners like Citizens help JA provide some of the most valuable learning experiences middle and high school students need at a critical time in their lives.”
