Coming of Age at Work: Good Jobs for Teens

A young person’s first job is a rite of passage in the US — an opportunity to build skills, save for college, support the family business, or support themselves and their loved ones. And after decades of decline, more teens are working today than at any point since 2008. Yet the labor market often fails them. Many face low wages, unpredictable or burdensome schedules that interfere with school, unsafe or discriminatory conditions, and limited opportunities for growth, belonging, and purpose. At the same time, innovative approaches like apprenticeship, training on safety and worker rights, and purposeful support and mentorship show what’s possible when we get it right: jobs that build confidence, provide fair compensation, and open doors to future careers. As we prepare the next generation of workers and community members, the question is clear: what would it take to make every teen’s first job a good job and ensure the labor market delivers for young workers? This event — hosted by the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program and the Forum for Community Solutions on April 21, 2026 — explores how to create meaningful work opportunities for teens while protecting them from dangerous and exploitative conditions. Our conversation includes opening remarks from Matt Helmer (Aspen Institute) and Gabby Smith (Plate it Forward), followed by a panel discussion with Jessica Martinez (National Council for Occupational Safety and Health), Mandee Polonsky (Northwestern Memorial HealthCare), John Valverde (YouthBuild Global), Taylor White (New America), and moderator Mike Swigert (Aspen Institute).For more information about this event, including a transcript, speaker bios, and additional resources, visit our website. For highlights from this discussion, subscribe to our YouTube channel.Or subscribe to our podcast to listen on the go.To learn more about the Forum for Community Solutions, visit: aspencommunitysolutions.orgThis event is part of our Opportunity in America series. It is also the second in our two-part miniseries, “Exploring the Past, Present, and Future of Youth at Work.”For part one, “Backsliding on Child Protections: The Return of Child Labor in the US,” click here.