An estimated 43,000 people age 16 to 19 in Michigan are expected to seek summer employment this year.

To help raise awareness about the importance of youth gaining skills and training for the future while doing so safely and legally, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed this to be Youth Employment Month in Michigan.

During the month of June, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity encourages Michigan employers to offer meaningful, safe and valuable work and volunteer opportunities to youth. They are urged to recognize that hiring young people, including those with disabilities, even if only for a summer, is an investment in the future of the state and growing economy.

Students and young people also are encouraged to explore training and employment services available to them.

“We have a duty to protect minors who are eager to seek employment and ensure their safety while gaining invaluable knowledge and skills that better prepare them for future careers,” LEO Acting Director Susan Corbin said. “The state offers a wealth of programs and services to support young talent that puts them on a path to success now as they seek part-time employment, and in their future career endeavors.”

LEO has resources for businesses, schools and parents seeking information about legally and safely employing minors under the age of 18, and can provide guidance on the Youth Employment Standards Act that ensures all minors obtain and provide a completed worker permit to their employer before starting work to ensure their working conditions are safe and legal.

Employers are responsible for knowing and following the law while employing minors, and the state encourages employers who need additional understanding to watch the Youth Employment Standards Act webinar.

LEO has a wealth of programs as well that prepare youth with training and services that help them land meaningful employment opportunities.

The contributions of local businesses, as well as LEO services and programs through the Michigan Works! Network, are essential to developing and promoting productive opportunities for youth and young adults. Summer employment opportunities, including for those with disabilities, are offered within many Michigan industries, including agriculture, amusement and recreation services, lodging, camping, retail and food service.

“Activities such as career exploration, job shadowing and skills training can help young people — our future workforce leaders — gain valuable experience and build a network of professional referrals, oftentimes while earning wages,” Corbin said. “We know these employment experiences can be transformational to a young person as they begin their career pathway.”

Vocational Rehabilitation services through the Michigan Rehabilitation Services and Bureau of Services for Blind Persons include MRS Pre-Employment Transition Services, MRS Young Adult Services and BSBP Pre-Employment Transition Services. All are geared toward providing equal opportunities for success to youth with disabilities.

Additionally, programs such as Jobs for Michigan Graduates and the Young Professionals initiative prepare students for both education and career success.

As Michigan’s economy recovers from the pandemic, now is a critical time to engage young job-seekers in career preparation and exploration activities. Join the state in encouraging both youth and local businesses to take part in gainful employment opportunities, using #MIYouthEmployment to follow the conversation online.

To learn more and to find resources on youth employment, including a digital toolkit and student success stories, go to Michigan.gov/YouthEmployment. Additional resources for Wage and Hour can be found at Michigan.gov/WageHour or by phone at 855-464-9243.