Engaging the Next Generation of Maine's Workforce Through Paid Career Exploration

Adapted from post contributed by Corrie Hunkler, Youth Engagement Coordinator

At Healthy Acadia, we’re committed to supporting initiatives that foster a vibrant future for our communities, especially when it comes to youth empowerment and workforce development. In collaboration with Maine Career Exploration, we are excited to offer young people ages 16-24 a unique opportunity to explore career paths while earning a paycheck through the Maine Career Exploration Program.

Corrie Hunkler meets with students interested in exploring local career opportunities.

This innovative program connects Maine employers with young people, offering 75 hours of paid work experience that not only helps participants gain valuable skills but also strengthens Maine's workforce. By allowing young people to engage directly with local businesses, the program helps to cultivate a future pipeline of talent for industries across the state. It gives youth a chance to experience firsthand the opportunities available right here in Maine, and for employers, it provides a meaningful way to invest in the next generation who will shape the state's economic future.

The Maine Career Exploration Program isn’t just about offering temporary work; it’s about creating long-term connections between young people and potential career paths. Through hands-on experience, students are introduced to various industries and are better prepared to succeed in future roles. As businesses engage with young talent, they not only fill immediate workforce needs but also demonstrate the wide array of possibilities that exist within the state, helping to retain Maine’s brightest minds.

The program is made possible with support from Manpower and the dedication of Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO) Coordinators who work closely with student participants and employers. ELO Coordinators ensure that young people are set up for success, from onboarding to preparation for their work assignments.

If you are a young person or an employer in Washington County and would like to participate in this program, please reach out to Corrie Hunkler, ELO Coordinator, at corrie.hunkler@healthyacadia.org or (207) 598-8519.

For more information on extended learning opportunities in Maine, visit the Maine DOE Extended Learning Opportunities webpage, or watch this video to learn more about the impact of the program.