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Young people are preparing for careers amid rapid workforce change. Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and influencing how young people enter the world of work.
The DeBruce Foundation’s 2026 report, How to Talk with Youth About Careers in the Age of AI, examines how young people are approaching their career futures, how AI is affecting their outlook, and what adults can do to help them navigate uncertainty with greater confidence and clarity.
What did the research find?
Young people remain hopeful, but many lack a clear understanding of how to prepare for their futures. Importantly, the report identifies practical, research-backed guidance for the educators, school counselors, parents, mentors, and other adults helping young people prepare for careers.
- 85% are at least somewhat confident they will achieve their career goals, but only 11% have a very clear idea of what they need to do to prepare.
- 58% say AI makes them nervous about their career prospects.
- 60% expect AI to shrink or eliminate career fields they would like to enter, while only 37% expect it to open new opportunities that align with their strengths and interests.
- 76% are interested in using AI for at least one career exploration activity, but only 32% feel confident using these tools.
- Strong career literacy and network skills help buffer the pessimism resulting from messages about AI’s threats to jobs and careers.
Together, these findings offer a hopeful path forward: by helping young people strengthen their career literacy and build their networks, adults can help them approach change with greater confidence, clearer next steps, and a stronger sense of possibility.
How can adults help youth prepare for careers?
Young people do not need adults to predict every change that lies ahead. They need adults who help them explore possibilities and prepare to respond as the world of work evolves.
Career conversations can build career literacy and network strength. Try this!
- Begin with curiosity rather than pressure
- Explore a young person’s interests, work skills, experiences, and possibilities
- Provide honest information about changing careers and emerging opportunities
- Connect young people with helpful people, experiences, and resources.
Explore free tools and resources designed to help people understand their work skills, expand their career possibilities, and take their next steps.
About the research
The DeBruce Foundation Emerging Youth Survey reached 702 young people ages 16–24 across the United States. Conducted in December 2025 and January 2026, the survey was designed to be representative of youth nationwide by race, sex, and rural or metropolitan location.
This is the fourth wave of The Foundation’s research into how young people approach careers and the support they need.
Explore previous research: