In the workforce, upskilling is considered a career survival strategy. The pace of change in most industries means that what was cutting-edge five years ago might be obsolete today.
By learning new skills, you stay relevant, competitive, and open to opportunities. It also signals to employers that you are adaptable and forward-thinking, qualities that matter regardless of industry. In many cases, upskilling can be the difference between plateauing and progressing.
To explore just how much this matters to workers, Careerminds, a global outplacement and career development firm, surveyed 3,002 employees and asked them which company they would most like to join if career development and upskilling opportunities were the only criteria.
The most popular employers when it comes to upskilling are heavyweights such as Amazon, Pfizer and Coca-Cola, and job seekers see them as the best paths toward career progression. Whether it’s climbing the ranks at Intel, picking up certifications at Mayo, or learning leadership skills at Capital One, workers clearly value companies that don’t just hand out paychecks but teach them how to build careers.
“Upskilling isn’t a side project – it’s the heartbeat of a modern career,” said Raymond Lee, president of Careerminds. “What really stood out in this survey is that employees don’t just want training; they want a clear map of where it can take them. The core message appears to be: growth equals loyalty.”
The top three choices in New Jersey are:
Merck & Co., Rahway
Merck is one of the state’s most influential pharmaceutical companies, with headquarters in Rahway. Staff point to training and development initiatives that support advancement in research, manufacturing, and business roles. Merck remains a workplace where scientific discovery and career progression are tightly linked.
Johnson & Johnson, New Brunswick
Survey respondents highlighted Johnson & Johnson because it is one of New Jersey’s iconic employers and a leader in health-care products. Employees value the company’s leadership programs and professional development across pharmaceuticals, devices and consumer goods. J&J is seen as a place where careers grow alongside industry-shaping innovation.
Prudential Financial, Newark
Respondents rated Pru highly because it continues to be one of New Jersey’s most established financial services companies. Employees highlight opportunities for advancement supported by structured development programs in finance, technology, and operations. Prudential remains a trusted employer where long-term careers are built on a foundation of stability and growth.
