Pittsburgh, PA – County Executive Sara Innamorato, Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor, and Partner4Work CEO Rob Cherry joined partners at New Century Careers to announce that applications are open for the 2026 Learn & Earn Summer Youth Employment Program. Young people ages 14–23 can apply now through June 5, 2026. Each year, Learn & Earn connects youth across Allegheny County to meaningful summer opportunities that build skills, confidence, and pathways to future careers. Since launching in 2014, the program has supported more than 14,000 participants and invested over $15 million in wages, helping to strengthen the region’s future workforce. "Learn & Earn is an investment in the next generation of Pittsburghers," said Mayor Corey O'Connor. "This program provides the partnerships our young people need to try something new, develop skills, build a network and work with mentors to become our region's next professionals, leaders and entrepreneurs." Opportunities to Learn, Work, and Advance Learn & Earn offers a structured pathway designed to meet young people where they are and support their growth over time:
- Tier 1: Career Exploration (Age 14) Youth build foundational skills through interactive workshops, career exploration activities, job shadowing, and industry tours. Participants earn $10/hour for up to 100 hours.
- Tier 2: Work Experience (Ages 15–19) Participants are placed at worksites where they gain hands-on experience, develop workplace skills, and build professional connections while earning $12/hour, working up to 120 hours.
- Tier 3: Advancement (Ages 20–23) Young adults receive up to 150 hours of industry training, with opportunities to earn credentials and connect to full-time employment or registered apprenticeships. Tier 3 participants earn up to $15/hour
This progression allows participants to move from early career exploration to real-world experience and, ultimately, to career-focused training and employment. “When young people are given the space to learn, try new things, and be supported along the way, you see them grow; not just in skills, but in confidence and in what they believe they can achieve,” said Rob Cherry, CEO of Partner4Work. “When we invest in that growth, we’re also investing in the future of our communities and our economy” Businesses Encouraged to Get Involved Businesses across the region are encouraged to get involved by hosting a Learn & Earn participant. Last year, more than 190 worksites participated, helping provide meaningful work experiences for local youth. Organizations interested in becoming a host site can contact Stephanie Bales at summer@partner4work.org to learn more. County Executive Sara Innamorato also encouraged businesses to participate, highlighting the positive impact Learn & Earn youth have had within Allegheny County departments. She shared how participants bring fresh perspectives, energy, and new ideas to the workplace, creating meaningful benefits for both young people and employers. “If we want to strengthen our economy, we need to invest in the talent already here," said County Executive Sara Innamorato. "By connecting young people with diverse mentors early on, we help them build professional roots and see how internships can lead to lasting, sustaining careers right here in our region.” Apply Now Applications are open through June 5, 2026. Youth and young adults can learn more and apply at www.jobs4summer.org, or get help applying at locations across Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh. Businesses Encouraged to Get Involved To learn more about becoming a worksite, contact Stephanie Bales at summer@partner4work.org. |
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