Executive’s Desk: Preparing teens for the workforce is an investment in the future

When we invest in young people, we’re not just shaping great employees; we are building future leaders, stronger communities and a stronger economy.

At Dion’s, we have seen the same scenario play out time and time again over the past 48 years. A young person walks in for their first day, nervous and unsure. Within months, they are confidently helping customers, solving problems and leading their peers.

Lisa Damour, psychologist and author of “The Emotional Lives of Teenagers,” captured the idea well, stating, “There’s value in an outward focus. I have never seen anything do more for a teenager than a job, job. Not a cushy internship. Rather, a job taking care of customers, dealing with challenges and doing work that is sometimes tedious. The amount of growth it fosters, the sense of capacity, the skillsets that are developed. A therapeutic option (for teenagers) is a job, job.”

When Dion’s began, the goal was simple: Provide great food. But as the company grew, so did its purpose. We realized we had another equally important mission: to train and develop young people.

As that commitment grew it developed into two of our company promises. The first is a promise to our employees: to provide an inspiring place to start and build fulfilling lives and careers. The second is a promise to our communities: to be a trusted partner in fostering youth development.

These go hand in hand. When young people are given real opportunities, they don’t just grow as employees; they grow into future leaders who contribute far beyond our restaurants.

Over the years, we have hired nearly 30,000 individuals, and for most, Dion’s is their first job. About 63% of our employees are teenagers, making us one of the largest private employers of teens in the state. Most employees will not make a career out of Dion’s like I did, and we take immense pride in preparing them for the workforce.

On the job they learn responsibility, teamwork and communication. They develop the ability to manage time, solve problems and handle challenges under pressure, which are skills they take beyond our restaurants.

While many adults assume young people are lazy and lack discipline, we see the opposite. When standards are high, they rise to the occasion. They are hardworking, capable and eager to contribute. More than anything, they seek leadership and direction, and when they find it, they thrive.

We have seen our employees go on to become doctors, nurses, teachers, pilots, CEOs and more. Many tell us that Dion’s helped them discover their passions, build lifelong friendships and gain confidence.

One former employee put it best: “Dion’s helped me be more vocal and confident. Answering phones and working the register helped me overcome shyness and develop leadership skills.”

Parents also see the impact. One father shared that his son, now a graduate of the Air Force Academy, learned teamwork, accountability and communication at Dion’s, which are lessons that helped shape his future.

Instead of writing off the next generation, lean in. Give young people the chance they deserve, and you’ll be amazed at what they achieve. Their success is our success. When you invest in them, you invest in our future.