Gen Z in the Workforce | One Detroit Future of Work Town Hall

As the baton of the workforce is passed from one generation to the next, Gen Z emerges as a powerful force, bringing their unique perspectives and aspirations to the table. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z is approaching higher education and their future careers with a fresh mindset, seeking practical skills and hands-on experiences that will empower them in an ever-evolving job market.

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Unlike previous generations, the cohort values flexibility, purpose and meaningful connection in their careers, prioritizing work-life balance and personal growth. As they embark on their professional journeys, Gen Z has high hopes for a future where their work aligns with their passions, enables positive societal impact and fosters constant learning. Statistics from a Deloitte and Network of Executive Women (NEW) poll shows that 77% of Gen Z said they would prefer to work for a company that shared similar values as they do.

While many factors may influence their career decisions, including opportunities elsewhere, a significant question still remains: Will they choose to stay in Michigan, their home state, to pursue their dreams and contribute to the state’s growth?

In partnership with the Michigan Learning Channel, One Detroit producer and Future of Work host Will Glover sat down with three members of Gen Z — Brooke Snow, Samantha Chiang and Kendall Murray — to talk about how they and their peers are approaching higher education, their hopes for the future, what they wanted from employers and a career, and whether they saw themselves staying in Michigan after graduation.

This town hall continues One Detroit’s cumulative, ongoing conversation involving the future of work and workforce development in Michigan. Livestream this town hall on One Detroit’s Facebook page, YouTube and at the top of this page.