A new index takes a look at the steps workers are taking to protect their jobs and skills from the impact of automation on the workforce, like this woman working at her laptop.
Campus Leadership

Workers are preparing for automation–here’s how


A new index takes a look at the steps workers are taking to protect their jobs and skills from the impact of automation on the workforce

Overall, employers are split about the impact of automation on their business. Fifty-six percent of company vice presidents say they’re somewhat or very concerned about the impact, compared to 44 percent of frontline employees are concerned about automation, which may indicate their growing confidence in new skills they’ve learned or credentials they’ve gained to stay competitive.

Generation Z workers who have entered the workforce recent years are the least likely to be somewhat or very concerned about the future of work and the impact of automation. Many Generation Z students already seek out learning on the job, though, leading to more perceived job or workforce security.

Workers’ most common reasons for pursuing additional education include keeping pace with or getting ahead of changes in their position (42 percent), to make more money (34 percent), to pursue a career in a new field or perform a new function (33 percent), and for advancement or growth opportunities at a different organization (29 percent).

Key findings include:

Eighty-four percent of respondents say they believe the skills or degree they’ve earned through their employer have helped prepare them for the future of work.

Eighty-two percent say they are more effective employees thanks to continued education made possible by an employer’s tuition reimbursement program.

Sixty-four percent say that tuition reimbursement program has made them happier at work.

More than half of those surveyed (52 percent) say their employer’s tuition reimbursement program is among the best benefits offered at work. In fact, many ranked education benefits above paid family leave and life or disability insurance.

In fact, about half of surveyed workers (49 percent) say they were only able to pursue education because their employer offered tuition reimbursement.

When students pursue additional educational opportunities, finding a program that offers fully-online class and coursework is one of the most important deciding factors. More than half of surveyed workers (53 percent) are enrolled in programs that are fully online.

Fifty-five percent of surveyed workers say time commitment is their biggest challenge when pursuing a degree or certification.

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Laura Ascione
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