with"child labor" in and of itself. I was 15 when I had my first job (at a convenience store). When we were stationed in Germany (father was US Army), we lived on a farm. I helped out with some of the farm chores voluntarily. It was good experience. I was 9-10 years old. Now, forcing 6-year-olds to slave away in a sweatshop, now that's wrong. As a rule, we in America don't do that as we have laws against it. Every once in awhile, someone is caught doing it and they are prosecuted.

We all have to start somewhere and the fast food industry (that Deadly mentioned) and convenience stores and supermarkets are often a good first step. Besides, 16 isn't "child labor." At that age, kids should be thinking about jobs and careers. They can gain valuable experience (good and bad) at the places I mentioned.

Now back to the topic: I was with my last employer for 12 years. I only quit so we could move out of California.