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Colorado Teens Navigate Tough Summer Job Market: One’s AI Internship Offers Hope Amid Challenges
As summer rolls in, Colorado’s teenagers face one of the most challenging job markets they’ve encountered in decades. According to employment agency Challenger Gray & Christmas, the summer job outlook for youth in 2026 is projected to be the worst since records began in 1948, reflecting a concerning trend for young job seekers.
Consider the journey of Nick Wetterling, a 17-year-old who recently landed a coveted AI engineering internship at Denver-based Iterate.ai. His unique opportunity highlights not only his determination but also the importance of connections in a climate where traditional jobs are scarce. Wetterling’s internship was not a product of a formal job posting but rather a result of leveraging his personal network, showcasing a proactive attitude that resonates with a principle found in Proverbs 22:29: "Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank."
Wetterling’s perseverance contrasts starkly with the plight of his peers, many of whom are struggling to even secure an interview. His twin sister, for instance, has applied to 32 companies without any luck. This situation serves as a reminder that while hard work and determination are essential, sometimes it is about who you know and the initiatives you take that can determine success.
Economic Factors at Play
The decline in summer job opportunities can be attributed to several economic factors. High inflation, escalating gas prices, and a shift towards hiring experienced workers over teenagers have left many young Coloradans disillusioned. The participation rate for those aged 16 to 19 has fallen to just 39.1%, dropping from over 50% in years past.
Andrew Hudson, the founder of Andrew Hudson’s Jobs List, succinctly summarizes the current landscape: "Years ago, a teenager could walk into a grocery store or fast-food restaurant and find dozens of seasonal opportunities. Those jobs still exist, but they’re scattered across hundreds of employer websites, making it much harder for young people to find them."
Finding a Way Forward
In response to these challenges, motivated teens are getting creative—starting their own services like babysitting, lawn-mowing, and tutoring—essentially becoming young entrepreneurs earlier than ever before. Carol Carter, CEO of GlobalMindED, encourages teens to develop the "skill of persistence," much like Wetterling did. Her organization is actively supporting students in learning networking skills and connecting them with potential employers.
Carter’s job fair event this Friday at the Denver Sheraton Hotel aims to provide more opportunities for young job seekers. Such initiatives reflect a core teaching of Jesus found in Luke 11:9: "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
A Broader Lesson
The situation unfolding in Colorado speaks not merely to a challenging job market but also to a broader lesson in resilience and community connection. Not every teenager will follow in Wetterling’s footsteps, but every effort counts toward building a network and honing skills.
The current landscape forces us to examine our own circumstances, encouraging us to ask if we’re seeking opportunities and using our skills effectively.
In challenging times, remember the words of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Whether you’re a teenager navigating the job market or an adult facing your own challenges, let this serve as a reminder that perseverance, connection, and community support are essential as we navigate our paths forward.
Encouragement
As you reflect on these principles, consider how you can be a source of encouragement and support in someone’s job search or personal journey. After all, we are all connected in this endeavor of life—sometimes what our youth need most is a helping hand or an encouraging word, a simple "I believe in you."
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Q&A about
How can I teach my teenager the importance of networking for summer jobs?
Encourage your teen to build connections by engaging with others and sharing their interests and talents. In Proverbs, we learn that “iron sharpens iron,” emphasizing the value of relationships that can uplift and enhance our skills. Remind them to approach networking with sincerity and humility, looking for ways to serve others along the way.
Is it wrong for teens to want to start their own business during the summer?
No, starting a business can be an excellent way for teens to learn responsibility and creativity. In Ecclesiastes, we see that there is “a time for every matter under heaven,” including entrepreneurship. Supporting their entrepreneurial spirit can help them develop a strong work ethic and utilize their gifts to serve others and contribute to the community.
How can my teen respectfully approach a CEO for mentorship or summer work?
Teach your teen to create a thoughtful and respectful outreach plan, using kindness and humility to make their request. Philippians 2:3 encourages us to do nothing out of selfish ambition but to value others above ourselves, which can guide them in approaching someone in a position of authority. A genuine connection made through respect can often yield great opportunities.
What should I remind my kid about hard work when it comes to summer jobs?
Help your teen understand that hard work is both a duty and a divine calling. Colossians 3:23 advises us to work heartily, as if for the Lord, not for men. Encourage them to see their summer job as a chance to glorify God through diligence and to develop character that reflects their faith in all they do.
