A new evaluation shows that the Maine Career Exploration (MCE) program has helped thousands of Maine teens and young adults gain confidence, job skills, and clearer pathways to employment and education.
The third-party report, conducted by the Data Innovation Project at the University of Southern Maine’s Catherine Cutler Institute, found that more than 6,000 young people ages 16 to 24
participated in MCE since its launch in fall 2022. The program, part of Governor Janet Mills’ Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, provided paid, meaningful work experiences and career
exploration across the state.
Youth who engaged in the program reported growth in critical job readiness skills—including problem-solving, communication, and teamwork—as well as increased optimism about their future. “Youth were very forthcoming and specific about how these experiences improved their skills and shaped their future goals,” said Julia Bergeron-Smith, lead author and Policy Associate at the Catherine Cutler Institute. “They described how work experiences helped them speak confidently, work on a team, and understand what careers are possible in their communities.”
Importantly, youth who had paid work experiences were nearly twice as likely to be offered a job
(41%) compared to those in unpaid roles (22%). “This kind of early, supported exploration helps
young people make better decisions about school, work, and training,” said co-author Sarah
Krichels Goan. “Knowing what you don’t want to do is just as valuable as knowing what you do.”
Employers also benefited from the program. Two in five surveyed employers offered a job to a
participating youth, and many formed new relationships with schools and training providers.
Some filled open positions immediately; others invited youth to return after completing high
school or further training.
The evaluation highlights the importance of ongoing support from dedicated program
coordinators and recommends sustained investment in flexible, community-responsive
programming. “Helping young people discover their passions—and helping employers offer
paid, hands-on opportunities—is one of the best ways to grow Maine’s workforce,” shared co-
author and lead data analyst, Madison Burke, Research Analyst.
The MCE Final Evaluation Report, Meaningful Work Experiences, Aspirational Futures, was
commissioned by the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future and the Maine
Department of Economic and Community Development.