THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ENCOURAGES SUMMER PROGRAMS TO HELP YOUNG NEW YORKERS EXPLORE CAREERS WITH CAREER JUMPSTART!

The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) is encouraging summer youth programs statewide to incorporate Career Jumpstart! into their curriculums to help prepare young people for success after high school. NYSDOL and the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) launched the pilot program in the summer of 2021 in partnership with faith-based organizations in the New York City area. As part of the program, participants were given the opportunity to explore career options and develop plans for their futures. Early career development helps young New Yorkers make informed career choices, resulting in lower student debt, more fulfilling careers, self-sufficient lifestyles, and a skilled workforce for our robust economy.

“Young New Yorkers will be the inheritors of our economic future,” said New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “These career development modules and activities can inspire students to start exploring careers and set young New Yorkers up for a successful future in our workforce.”

Career development activities are categorized in modules such as career exploration, getting hired, essential skills, community conversations, online branding, and financial literacy. Each activity takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete and can be tailored to the age group and their interests. The activities include diverse learning mediums such as arts, theatre, sports, music, peer interactions, social justice issues, group projects, and nature. Those interested in integrating the modules and activities in their youth and young adult programs can complete this online form to download the toolkit. Questions can be submitted to [email protected].

New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Daniel W. Tietz said, "By providing job readiness skills and fostering interest in the workforce, we encourage young New Yorkers to explore career paths and prepare for future employment. This program will engage youth with the knowledge, essential skills, and confidence they can utilize to begin their journey toward meaningful careers."

Career Jumpstart! is just one of many no-cost resources offered by NYSDOL to help guide New Yorkers into careers they love. Digital resources include additional information about career exploration, job search and networking tips, resume/cover letter writing assistance, and more.

For young New Yorkers looking to enter the world of work, NYSDOL provides online guidance, broken down by ages 14-17 and 18-24, to help employers, parents, and minors know their rights under the law. The Department also created this video as part of a campaign to educate the public about the safeguards for minors in the workplace. For more information on child labor laws, visit the Know Your Rights webpage.