Navigating Pathways Into Public Health: Opportunities and Insights From Government Public Health Workers 35 and Under

This study examines entry pathways, motivations, and workforce characteristics of employees aged 35 years and under using data from the 2024 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey. The survey received 56 595 responses, including 12 839 from the 35 and underage group who completed tailored questions on entry and career motivations. Compared with older colleagues, a larger proportion of younger staff hold a public health degree (36% vs 17%) and work in public health sciences roles (54% vs 37%). Most entered the state and local government public health workforce from other jobs, with 60% coming from outside the public health field. Although many intend to remain in governmental public health long term, advancement barriers contribute to anticipated early departures. These findings suggest opportunities to strengthen and expand pathways into governmental public health, as well as leadership development strategies to retain this skilled and mission-driven segment of the workforce.