Insight Into What's Next

For decades, academic success has largely been measured through standardized testing, GPA, and graduation rates. While these benchmarks remain important indicators of educational progress, they no longer tell the full story of whether students are prepared to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Today’s students are entering a future shaped by technological advancement, evolving workforce demands, and increasing economic uncertainty. In response, leaders in the education space are beginning to ask a broader question: Are students truly engaged in their learning?

Research by Ipsos and Junior Achievement shows that teens are optimistic about their futures, despite concerns about how AI might impact their career prospects. Read the summary here.

AI is expected to change the world of work. Learn how Junior Achievement is preparing students to succeed in our rapidly changing economy.

Research by Junior Achievement and Basinait Insights conducted in March of 2026 shows that more than 90 percent of education leaders surveyed agree with the statement, “There is a disconnect between what is taught in primary and secondary schools and what it takes for students to succeed economically in the future.” This response potentially reflects a recognition that while schools can provide strong academic foundations, too many students are graduating without the skills, experience, and practical exposure needed to translate learning into long-term economic opportunity. 

For today’s students, the journey from learning to earning is more complex than ever before. A rapidly evolving economy shaped by technological innovation, shifting workforce demands, and new career pathways requires more than academic knowledge alone. It requires a strong foundation of skills that can translate into real-world success. We believe that building these skills early is essential not only for individual success, but for long-term economic growth. When young people are equipped with the right competencies, they are better prepared to navigate their careers, contribute to the workforce, and create opportunities for themselves and others.

Through its strategic initiative, Education for What’s Next, Junior Achievement emphasizes the importance of equipping Generation Z and Generation Alpha with the durable skills and relevant and enduring experiential learning necessary to navigate an uncertain future of work. When young people develop financial capability, explore career pathways, and cultivate entrepreneurial thinking, they enter the workforce better prepared to navigate challenges, pursue advancement, and create opportunities.

These topline results from a survey by Junior Achievement and global research firm Ipsos explore the connection between financial literacy, money management, and economic outcomes.

Preparing students for the future of work takes more than classroom instruction—it takes collaboration between educators, communities, and the business leaders shaping tomorrow’s workforce. That’s why Junior Achievement USA is proud to expand its partnership with Staples to help more students across the country gain access to career-connected learning experiences.

For generations, economic mobility (the idea that each generation can achieve greater financial stability and opportunity than the last) have defined the American promise. Today, that promise is under measurable strain. A child’s ZIP code, family income, and access to opportunity remain powerful predictors of future outcomes. Talent is universal; opportunity is not.

At Junior Achievement, we believe every student deserves a future filled with choices and opportunities. That belief is the foundation of JA’s outcomes-based strategic blueprint; a clear, intentional approach to education that starts not with programs, but with the outcomes that matter most for students’ long-term success.

Our recent survey of Gen Z and Millennial JA alumni demonstrate and reflects the tangible ways JA is helping students prepare for what’s next.

“What’s Next?” That’s the question everyone is asking as AI is beginning to change the future of work. Junior Achievement is committed to answering that question through career-connected learning and our proven experiential learning offerings. This case statement defines the challenges, and JA’s approach to addressing them.

What’s next? It’s the question on everyone’s mind. Technologies we’ve never seen before are reshaping the world in ways we never imagined. Jobs people rely on today may not exist tomorrow.

When we talk about “return on investment,” our minds often jump to balance sheets, bottom lines, and quarterly reports. But what if the greatest ROI isn’t financial in the short term but social, economic, and generational in the long term?

As American teens stand on the brink of adulthood, they're navigating a rapidly changing world — one shaped by artificial intelligence, shifting views on higher education, and increasing financial pressure. But according to new research from Junior Achievement USA and Citizens, despite these mounting challenges, today’s teens are still remarkably optimistic about the future.

Junior Achievement of Central Upstate New York and the Rochester Business Journal today announced the 2025 inductees for the Rochester Business Hall of Fame:

If you've spent time in a classroom recently, you've probably heard a student ask: “Why are we learning this?” At first, it might sound like defiance or disinterest. But in reality, it’s one of the most important questions a student can ask—because it signals a desire for meaning, relevance, and connection. And in today’s world, those elements are essential to authentic learning. The good news? Educators have the power to turn that question into curiosity, motivation, and engagement.

As students head back to the classroom this fall, new insights from Junior Achievement reveal a growing disconnect between the skills today’s teens need and what they’re learning in school. In a recent national survey conducted by Big Village for Junior Achievement, 64% of teens (ages 13–17) said they are not using AI as a learning tool at school. This comes at a time when AI is rapidly reshaping industries, changing the ways we work, communicate, and solve problems.

In today’s rapidly evolving workforce, traditional classroom instruction alone is no longer enough. Employers increasingly seek individuals with not just technical knowledge, but also adaptability, critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving skills. This is where experiential learning steps in, and why Junior Achievement (JA) plays a vital role in reshaping how young people prepare for their futures.

Starting a career can be daunting, especially when faced with crucial decisions and additional challenges such as growing up in foster care, single parenting, or other significant life hurdles. In these situations, support becomes even more critical.

Failure can be one of the most effective tools for learning. However, this approach doesn’t always align easily with the realities of the classroom. Using Experiential Learning, Junior Achievement provides students with a structured learning environment where failure can be a positive force for learning and even help foster a growth mindset in students. Read more in JA’s latest thought leadership piece.

From June 8–11, the brightest young minds in entrepreneurship gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, for the inaugural Future BoundTM by Junior Achievement. This dynamic event brought together high school students from across the United States to showcase their innovative projects, demonstrate business acumen, and compete for national recognition for their outstanding achievements. A true celebration of creativity and ambition, Future Bound™ sets the stage for the next generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers.

Is a four-year degree necessary? For some fields, no. But the rising skills economy also depends on job candidates with measurable competencies to fill vacancies. This thought leadership piece explores the changing employment landscape and how Junior Achievement is preparing young people to succeed in it.

Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or just want to think more like a boss, building the right skill set is key. From navigating challenges to managing money, the most successful entrepreneurs are constantly learning, adapting, and growing.

In honor of Financial Literacy Month, we explore the challenges teens face in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world and emphasize the vital role financial education plays in shaping a more secure and promising future.  

This survey by Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Retirement’s Foundation explores how many teens are being exposed to financial literacy education and the impact it is having on their perceptions when it comes to money management and financial concepts.

A survey of teens showed that only 10 percent of teen girls would want a job in a non-medical STEM profession after they graduate. The same survey also shows boys’ interest in STEM careers has declined in recent years. Read our thought leadership piece on how Junior Achievement uses experiential learning and STEM professionals as role models to create a more engaging environment for students.

This research by Ipsos delves into Gen Z and Millennial JA Alumni’s perspectives on the impact their Junior Achievement experience had on their lives, ranging from career decisions to financial capability.

What can be done to better align how we educate young people with an ever-changing future? Why JA? Why Now? helps answer that question by illustrating challenges facing today’s young people and the steps that can be taken, with education and Junior Achievement working in tandem, to help them overcome and achieve their potential as adults.

When you say the word “mentor,” people often think of one-to-one mentoring. However, group mentoring can have similar benefits and even some added advantages. Learn more about group mentoring and Junior Achievement’s approach to this life-changing way of empowering youth.

In the United States, one in eight young adults is disconnected from employment, education, and training. At the same time, 40 to 60 percent of high school students say they are disengaged at school. What is behind the disengaged youth dilemma, and how is Junior Achievement working to address it? Learn more in this thought leadership piece.

How prepared do teens feel for their future careers? What role does education play? And what about AI? Learn more from this thought leadership piece.

Junior Achievement, the Rochester Business Journal and the Rochester Museum and Science Center today announced the 2024 inductees for the Rochester Business Hall of Fame: George Karpus, Retired Founder and CEO, Karpus Investment Management Sharon Napier, Executive Chair and Founder, Partners + Napier Philip R. Wegman, Founder and Chairman, Wegman Companies, Inc.

When you ask most adults “the one thing” they wish they learned in school but didn’t, the response typically involves money management and personal finance. This thought leadership piece explores what is and isn’t working with financial literacy education and Junior Achievement’s approach to promoting financial literacy and, more importantly, financial capability.

Gen Z: Not Quite Ready for Primetime Junior Achievement recently conducted research with HRO Today to learn more about employer perspectives on Generation Z and what can be done to better prepare young adults for success in the workplace. Read the findings here.

While the demand for financial literacy education is high among teens, the availability of such courses is disappointingly low. Junior Achievement continues to bridge this gap by offering comprehensive programs that equip students with essential life skills.

For over a century, owning a home has been synonymous with the American Dream. Since the 1890s, when homebuilders first linked homeownership with the promise of prosperity, generations of Americans have aspired to build wealth and create legacies through owning their own homes. However, recent trends reveal significant challenges facing young adults in achieving this milestone.

For decades, earning a four-year college degree has been seen as the key to upward mobility. However, rising college costs and increasing student debt are causing many to question the value of a college education.

Summer is a season often synonymous with relaxation and leisure for many teenagers. However, an increasing number of teens are leveraging this break from school to gain valuable work experience through summer jobs. These opportunities not only provide immediate benefits but also prepare young people for success in a global economy.

With rising prices and mortgage rates, homeownership is out of reach for many Americans. This thought leadership explores the factors behind this phenomenon and how to better prepare today's young people to be the homeowners of tomorrow.

In recent years, the value of a college education has been called into question. But if college isn't for everybody, what alternatives are there to ensure they have the skills they need to achieve their goals in life?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has swiftly become a driving force reshaping our world. From enhancing educational experiences to revolutionizing industries, its impact is profound and far-reaching. Yet, amidst the promises of innovation, questions arise, particularly among young people, about the future of work and the career paths that will remain resilient in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

In today's dynamic economic landscape, financial literacy is more than just understanding concepts—it's about taking action. Junior Achievement champions this philosophy with the theme "From Literacy to Action." Our mission is clear: to equip individuals, especially young people, with the tools and confidence needed to navigate personal finances effectively.

In a world where the impact of every action matters, volunteering stands out as a powerful means of making a difference. At the heart of JA lies the belief that every individual has the potential to shape the future, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through initiatives like "Because of JA," volunteers contribute to meaningful change, one classroom at a time.

Retirement is more top-of-mind for teens than many might think, but how much do they understand what goes into planning for their financial futures? This research explores these issues and more.

Family financial stresses are having an impact on teens. Learn more about teens top concerns and possible ways to address them through financial literacy education.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers have long been hailed as the anchor of innovation and economic progress. However, despite the critical role they play in shaping the future, there's a concerning trend in the declining interest among students, particularly in non-medical STEM professions.

In recent decades, a great amount of effort has been put into educating young people about STEM careers and the need for STEM skills. Despite this, teen interest has continued to remain flat and even decline. This thought leadership piece explores some of the factors contributing to this phenomenon and possible ways to address it.

Every generation faces its unique set of challenges and hurdles on the path to economic stability and personal fulfillment. From the Greatest Generation's resilience through the Great Depression and World War II to Millennials weathering the storm of 9/11 and the 2008 financial crisis, each cohort navigates its own economic landscape. Today, as Generation Z comes of age, they confront a world shaped by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, technological advancements, and evolving societal norms.

With rising prices and a changing work landscape, Generation Z is facing challenges not experienced by previous generations. Are they falling behind economically? What can be done about it? This thought leadership piece explores the challenges and possible solutions.

In the pursuit of career success and happiness, the concept of dream jobs often takes center stage for young individuals. Many of them hold on to the thought of landing their dream job, one that aligns seamlessly with their passions and interests. However, a closer look at the professional landscape reveals that dream jobs might not be as prevalent or feasible as commonly believed.

Empowering the potential of young entrepreneurs is not just about individual success; it's about shaping a future where innovation is the norm, economies are resilient, and dreams are transformed into realities.

Have you ever considered the transformative power a single educational experience can have on shaping the trajectory of a student's entire life? Canisha, a distinguished Junior Achievement alumna, serves as a powerful testament to the profound impact of our organization on young minds.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, let us embrace the opportunity to make resolutions that transcend personal boundaries and contribute to a brighter future for all. With our commitment to empowering the next generation, we can provide a pathway for individuals to turn their aspirations into actions.

The holiday season is the best time of year to see and experience the impact of embracing the spirit of giving. At Junior Achievement we believe one of the most precious gifts we can offer is the gift of possibility.

In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, a well-thought-out business plan serves as the cornerstone for success. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding business enthusiast, the importance of a meticulously crafted business plan cannot be overstated.

It's that time of year again, where the holiday season is upon us. However, for many teenagers, it seems that a "Blue Christmas" might be in store. According to our recent survey conducted by the research firm Big Village, over half of teens report that rising prices have had a significant impact on the number and types of gifts they've received during the holidays in recent years.

Junior Achievement and our learning experience JA Launch Lesson play a pivotal role in shaping the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. We provide the education, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Financial literacy is a vital skill that everyone should acquire, but it's often overlooked in traditional education. JA recognizes this gap and steps in to provide students with hands-on learning experiences. These experiences range from budgeting, saving, and investing to understanding credit and debt, enabling young people to develop a strong foundation in personal finance.

Junior Achievement serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring women entrepreneurs, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to succeed in the world of business. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, encouraging risk-taking, and exposing young women to female role models, JA empowers the next generation of female business leaders. The impact of JA on women entrepreneurs is undeniable, and the world can expect to see more women shattering the glass ceiling and achieving great success in the business world.

Financial literacy is a crucial skill that middle schoolers need to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Junior Achievement serves as an effective solution by providing tailored financial education programs that empower young individuals. Through our programs, volunteer mentors, hands-on learning experiences, and career exploration initiatives, we equip middle schoolers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to make informed financial decisions.

The pursuit of higher education has long been heralded as a gateway to a brighter future, providing individuals with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to achieve their dreams. However, the rising costs of college education have made it increasingly challenging for families and students to access this particular path to success.

Long are the days of sitting behind a computer screen for hours on end trying to put into words your accomplishments and what you’ve done in your job and career. The arrival of the digital age has not only transformed the way we live and work but has also revolutionized how we present ourselves to potential employers. In this era of constant change, the convergence of two significant phenomena, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and International Update Your Resume Month, presents a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic evolution of resumes and the profound impact of AI on the way we showcase our skills, achievements, and potential to the global job market.

The world of work is in a constant state of flux, driven by technological advancements, changing economic landscapes, and evolving societal norms. In this dynamic environment, the importance of work and career readiness has never been more pronounced. Organizations like Junior Achievement (JA) play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Moreover, the presence of generational diversity in the workforce adds a unique layer of complexity, requiring a harmonious blend of skills, perspectives, and experiences.

In a world often consumed by its relentless pace and individual pursuits, there exists a unique breed of organizations that stand as beacons of hope, dedicated to serving the greater good and fostering positive change. National Non-Profit Day, celebrated on August 17th, serves as an annual reminder to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions made by non-profit organizations in various domains. We are one of those organizations that has been impacting lives for over a century.

To gain a better understanding of how Generation Z perceives volunteering in and out of a place of employment, Junior Achievement enlisted the help of research firm Ipsos to conduct a multi-generational survey on volunteering. These are the results of an Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of Junior Achievement.

The survey conducted by Junior Achievement in partnership with Big Village provides crucial insights into the rising trend of teens relying on AI for schoolwork. While generative AI presents immense potential, it is essential to navigate the ethical considerations and the impact on students' learning experiences. As we continue to witness the integration of technology in education, it becomes imperative to strike a balance between leveraging AI's benefits and fostering a comprehensive and ethical educational environment.

In June 2023, the Nation's Capital hosted a remarkable event as 15 exceptional student companies from Junior Achievement gathered to compete in the 2023 Junior Achievement National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS). These ambitious students devise and market products or services that address unmet consumer needs, while also seeking investors for their ventures.

Many employers are struggling to re-establish workplace culture following the disruptions of the pandemic. Employee Volunteer Programs, EVPs, like those supported by Junior Achievement are one way to address this challenge. This thought leadership piece covers the topic and shows JA as a solution provider.

In today's world, teens are increasingly exploring alternatives to the traditional higher education route. That’s why Junior Achievement and Citizens conducted a study to gain insight into where teens' thoughts are when it comes to the cost of higher education.

JA is using technology to help high school students have a better understanding of how money works, as demonstrated by this overview of the JA Finance Park Virtual Advanced Simulation.

This summary shows how the JA Finance Park Virtual Entry Simulation helps improve the financial capability of middle school students.

Recent advances in Artificial Intelligence "AI" are prompting questions about this technology's future impact on jobs. This JA thought leadership paper highlights teens concerns about their future career prospects and possible ways to better prepare today's young people for tomorrow.

Not every student plans to go to college and finds JA valuable in introducing young people to careers that don’t require a degree, such as in the skilled trades, as well as occupations students can pursue straight out of high school. Volunteers often share their career journeys with students, making JA even more relatable.

We’re proud to announce that JA Worldwide has been nominated for the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize, the second such honor in two years. Junior Achievement USA is a member of JA Worldwide.

Volunteers are the game-changer! They are the player that ignites those around them to do better and be better. They are the player that changes the “on court” or “on field” energy that’s a spark plug and leads the team to victory. They are the ones that young people need.

When she was a child, Socheth McCutcheon’s family escaped Cambodia, which was under the control of the Khmer Rouge, in search of a better life in the United States. Socheth’s family settled in Revere, Massachusetts, near Boston. Socheth now serves as a volunteer for Junior Achievement in New Jersey. She feels it is important to “pay it forward” by being a role model for young people, especially those with circumstances like the ones she experienced growing up.

At Junior Achievement, we view financial literacy as “the other literacy.” Just like reading or writing, we all deal with money on a near daily basis. Junior Achievement employs a pathways approach to teaching financial literacy to young people. By “pathways,” we mean that JA programs are designed to engage students on the subject over multiple grades, from their first days in kindergarten, throughout their K-12 years, preparing them for the transition to post-secondary education or work.

The nation is facing economic uncertainty not seen in decades. How will this impact today's young people, and what can be done to better prepare them to achieve their potential given the seismic forces affecting our society and the world?

Junior Achievement's proven programs are shown to inspire and prepare young people for success. Our approach is demonstrated to give students the tools they need to increase their chances of achieving their potential in work, career, and life.

Junior Achievement alumni credit JA for positive outcomes when it comes to managing money, pursuing a career, and starting a business. This, according to new research by Ipsos. Read the executive summary here.

How do today's young people feel about owning a home? What questions and concerns do they have? How can these questions and concerns be addressed? The 2022 Junior Achievement and Fannie Mae Youth Homeownership Survey explores these and other issues.

According to a new survey by Junior Achievement USA, a third of teens (33%) say that their parents or guardians are concerned about the cost of back-to-school supplies this year.

Inflation is back and kids have questions. This guide helps parents, and others with young people in their lives, explain the causes of inflation and what can be done to address it in ways that are easy for young people to understand.

In June of 2022, 15 of Junior Achievement’s top student companies came to the Nation’s Capital to compete in the 2022 Junior Achievement National Student Summit.

Rochester, N.Y. (March 2, 2022) – Junior Achievement of Central Upstate New York (JACUNY) today formally announced plans to build a state-of- the art learning lab that will bring hands-on experiences to thousands of area students.

Research by The Allstate Foundation and Junior Achievement shows that teens may be experiencing early signs of financial abuse in their romantic relationships. This executive summary not only covers the challenges facing teens, but steps they can take to recognize financial abuse and address it through education.

Junior Achievement, the Rochester Business Journal and the Rochester Museum and Science Center today announced that the following individuals have been selected for induction into the Rochester Business Hall of Fame:

Reya Thompson, a senior from Gates Chili High School, has been awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Syracuse University.

Local group of teen entrepreneurs will go head-to-head against 14 other teams in virtual business competition.

Economic Empowerment for a More Equitable and Just Tomorrow- Junior Achievement is committed to promoting a more equitable and just tomorrow for today's young people. This thought leadership piece explores the economic challenges facing Black and Latinx Americans and the role Junior Achievement can play in promoting economic mobility through education in light of these challenges.

Ipsos, the world's third largest market research firm, has conducted this survey of Junior Achievement alumni in the United States. JA Alumni report the impact of Junior Achievement on their lives, including decisions related to education, career, and starting a business.

The goals of this poll included better understanding teens' interests in career paths, the attraction from influencers towards specific industries, and accessibility to work-readiness and financial-preparedness courses.

How many states offer or even require entrepreneurship education programs? This report provides an informative overview.

America's schools face unprecedented challenges to prepare students for postsecondary education and entry into the U.S. and global workforce. Discover how programs developed by JA USA directly support the goals of the Common Core State Standards Initiative at elementary, middle, and high school levels to ensure students are college and career ready.

Business leaders claim that the generation of students entering the workplace lacks many critical "soft" skills like problem solving and critical thinking, abilities that contribute to an individual's and an organization's success. Explore Junior Achievement's new proposed model that links a foundation of recognized knowledge, skills and attitudes to measurable engagement and achievement activities. The application of this model can potentially lead to a student who is credentialed to be "workforce ready," fully prepared to contribute meaningfully upon entering a 21st century global workplace.

The number of states offering entrepreneurship education programs more than doubled between 2009 to 2015. See if your state is one of them.

Junior Achievement's 2016 Teens and Personal Finance Survey, sponsored by the Voya Foundation, shows that teens believe borrowers, not the government, are responsible for paying off their student loans.

Everyone agrees that STEM plays an important role in the job market of today…and tomorrow. But what do teens think of STEM, and other career fields, and how does that perspective differ by gender? The 2017 Teens & Careers Survey by Junior Achievement and EY explores those issues, and more.

In its first survey of elementary-aged children and their parents, Junior Achievement discovers how well kids understand money while learning when parents think children should start learning about financial concepts. This research is presented in conjunction with the Jackson Charitable Foundation.

Employee Volunteer Programs EVPs are an essential part of many Corporate Responsibility initiatives. But how can CR professionals ensure that their EVP efforts are meeting the needs of employees while advancing the goals of the company? This research by Junior Achievement and the Corporate Responsibility Association addresses these and other questions.

This survey of teens finds that only half of them plan to seek financial independence from their parents as adults! This, and other important insights, are available in this JA Teens and Personal Finance executive summary.

Today's 18-year-olds could start contributing to a 401K or Roth IRA with their first job, but many won't. This survey explores teens' knowledge and attitudes when it comes to saving for retirement.

Teens may think they are ready for college, but are they prepared to pay for higher education? This JA Teens and College Savings survey explores how ready today's young people are to make one of the biggest investments of their lifetime.

Technology in the classroom is changing the way students learn and teachers teach. This white paper, done in conjunction with eSchoolNews, explores how blended learning is impacting young people's attitudes and behavior related to money management.

"Disconnected Youth" are defined as those between the ages of 16 and 24 who are not employed nor enrolled in school. This research, conducted by the Population Reference Bureau for Junior Achievement USA, explores how those characteristics have changed since 1970 and touches upon implications for future policies and programs.

What do you want to be when you grow up? It's an question we have all been asked, but selecting a career is a decision many teens and young adults tend to put off, as discovered in this research.