When Young Adults Define Success: Rethinking Workforce Outcomes Together

09/23/2026
2:15 pm3:15 pm

When Young Adults Define Success: Rethinking Workforce Outcomes Together

Workforce and education systems are increasingly being asked to show impact, yet the measures we rely on often reflect institutional priorities more than the lived experiences of the people we serve. This session explores the opportunity to redefine success by placing participant voice at the center of program design and evaluation. Led by student researchers, the session highlights how Youth Participatory Action Research creates more relevant, trusted, and effective pathways while building leadership and career-ready skills for young people. At a moment when equity, engagement, and accountability matter more than ever, this approach offers a powerful way to align outcomes with what participants say truly supports their success.

National Fund is now Shift Work Forward.