A recent European study commissioned by Amazon reveals a significant preference among over half of European workers (54%) for on-the-job skills training or apprenticeships over traditional university degrees as preparation for today’s workforce. The study, conducted by Ipsos as part of Amazon’s Future of Work & Career Development initiative, highlights that 73% of workers believe there should be more apprenticeship and internship opportunities for young people.
The study also underscores a strong emphasis on continuous learning, with 89% of European employees prioritizing acquiring new skills over other career advancements. Factors such as competitive pay (94%) and flexible work arrangements (93%) are crucial, yet 91% consider on-the-job training vital when seeking new job opportunities, often ranking it higher than company culture (78%).
Amazon, adapting to these trends, has invested over €100 million in training programs across Europe since launching its Career Choice initiative in 2014. This program covers up to €8,000 in tuition costs for various in-demand fields, supporting both hourly and salaried employees across the region. In 2024, Amazon plans to invest €40 million to expand the program with 25 new courses in five European countries, aiming to meet evolving job demands.
Since its inception, Career Choice has benefited over 40,000 Amazon employees in Europe, enabling many to transition into new roles or pursue external career opportunities with acquired skills. Looking ahead, the study underscores the need for ongoing training to address worker concerns about future job relevance, with 67% of respondents believing continual retraining is necessary.
Robert Marhan, Global Operations Vice President of People Experience & Technology at Amazon, emphasized the program’s growth and its role in supporting career development across Europe. He highlighted Amazon’s commitment to expanding Career Choice, ensuring employees can enhance their skills and pursue diverse career paths within and beyond the company.
For more information about Amazon’s Career Choice program, visit Amazon Career Choice.
