Economic development in Greater New Orleans is often discussed in terms of attracting businesses, growing industries, and investing in infrastructure. Those efforts are critical, but they are incomplete without a parallel investment in economic mobility for our young people. Simply put, the future of our regional economy depends on whether today’s students can see opportunity here, access it and succeed within it.
Across our region, many students are unaware of the opportunities already available to them. As we often say, you can’t be what you can’t see.
High-wage, high-growth careers in maritime, healthcare, construction, logistics, finance, and technology are thriving here, yet many students struggle to connect classroom learning to viable, local careers. When those connections are missing, talented young people too often believe they must leave the region to find success.
That is a workforce challenge, not just an education issue.
Economic mobility starts with career-connected learning — early, consistent exposure to how education translates into income, stability and long-term opportunity. They need to meet professionals, understand pathways and build the skills that employers actually value.
With more than 70 years of experience and impacting over 1 million local students, Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans is focused on driving lasting change — change that strengthens individuals, businesses and the broader economic ecosystem.
But this work only succeeds with active participation from the business community.
When employers engage early, students make more informed decisions about education and training. They are more likely to pursue pathways aligned to real jobs. And they are more likely to stay and build careers here.
That is how we strengthen our talent pipeline — by building it locally, intentionally and in partnership.
By delivering highly engaging, opportunity-rich experiences — from JA BizTown and JA StartUp to industry-aligned programs and career pathways — JA helps students and young adults become confident, capable and connected. Confidence comes from understanding how money works and how careers are built. Capability comes from developing skills employers value. Connection comes from direct engagement with professionals who are building careers right here in our region.
Advancing economic mobility requires aligning education, industry and community around shared goals. Junior Achievement drives economic mobility for students by expanding access—access to information, networks, mentors and real-world experiences that have historically been out of reach for many young people. When students understand their options and can clearly see a pathway forward, they are empowered to make informed decisions about their futures.
Our business and industry partners play a critical role in building this ecosystem. When employers volunteer in classrooms, host site visits, support job shadowing or help shape curriculum, they are investing in their future workforce. Just as importantly, they are signaling to students: You belong here. Your talent is needed here.
Economic mobility benefits everyone. Employers gain a prepared, local talent pipeline. Families gain financial stability and improved quality of life. Communities grow stronger when young people stay, contribute and build their futures in Greater New Orleans. This is not just a workforce strategy — it is a long-term economic imperative.
The call to action is clear.
If you are a business leader, partner with education and workforce organizations. Open your doors, share your expertise, and invest in the next generation. If you are an educator or policymaker, prioritize career-connected learning that leads to real opportunity. And if you care about the future of Greater New Orleans, support efforts that create access to opportunity-filled futures for all students.
When we help young people become confident, capable, and connected today, we ensure a stronger, more prosperous region tomorrow.
Larry Washington is president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans (JAGNO). He may be reached via email at Larry@JAGNO.org.
