Can California Convince Teens to Work in Construction?

Facing an uncertain job market and the looming threat of A.I., graduating high school seniors in America’s tech capital are increasingly rethinking their career plans. Job demand in fields like construction, along with the allure of potential six-figure salaries, have some high schools investing in hands-on classes that are redefining what success looks like for the class of 2026.

By Mimi Dwyer, Yasu Tsuji and Karl Mollohan