Benefits of employer-sponsored education

Published on Sep 15, 2023

Spark innovation with employer-sponsored education

Benjamin Franklin once said, "An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest." Today, this wisdom is more relevant than ever. Employer-sponsored education isn’t just a perk; it’s a strategic investment that strengthens your workforce, sparks innovation and drives real business results.

So what does this mean for you? If you're considering going back to school, knowing how your education benefits your employer might just help you build a stronger case for support. The truth is, training and educational programs have a powerful impact on the bottom line. When employees are more skilled, they’re more committed, confident and successful.

Below, we explore six key benefits highlighting the importance of education in the workplace and how learning contributes to career advancement and job satisfaction. We'll also show how the University of Fredericton (UFred) helps organizations upskill their teams through flexible, online programs.

Top six benefits of employer-sponsored education

1. Improved skills and productivity

Investing in employee training boosts performance across the board. As you build new skills, you’ll become more confident, efficient and ready to take on new responsibilities. This directly supports your team’s goals, especially during periods of rapid change.

Whether you’re staying current with new technologies, gaining industry-specific knowledge, or learning how to modernize workplace practices, skills training helps businesses stay sharp and competitive.

2. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

Today’s workplace is fast-moving and complex. That’s why critical thinking is essential. Through continued education, you’ll learn how to assess situations from multiple perspectives and make smart, informed decisions.

Bottom line? You’ll be better equipped to adapt, pivot and solve problems that make a real impact.

3. Stronger communication and team collaboration

Ever wish workplace conversations flowed more smoothly? Professional development and training opportunities help sharpen your communication skills, both written and verbal.

You’ll also get better at collaborating across teams, leading meetings and listening actively. And when communication improves, so does the workplace culture.

4. Improved research and information literacy

Need to find and use reliable information fast? That’s where education makes a difference.

From researching trends to interpreting reports, you’ll know how to evaluate and apply information effectively. With these additional skills, you’ll contribute to smarter strategies, innovative thinking and stronger results.

5. Higher engagement and retention

When people feel supported, they stick around. A 2024 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report found that companies with strong learning cultures see higher retention, more internal promotions and stronger leadership pipelines.

By giving employees professional development opportunities, businesses see a boost in morale, loyalty and long-term success. That means less turnover and happier teams.

6. Preparing future leaders

Every company needs people ready to lead the way. That’s where upskilling comes in.

Structured learning helps you gain the confidence and knowledge to grow into leadership positions. Whether you’re preparing for your next promotion or helping your team through change, education builds the mindset needed to step up.

Who better to lead your company into the future than someone who’s already growing with it?

UFred: Your partner in workforce development

What this means for your career

Thinking about advancing your education? Talk to your workplace about sponsoring your learning. The many benefits of training to employers—from improved performance to greater loyalty—make it a compelling case for support.

With programs that prioritize teaching skills you'll be able to use right away, UFred offers a unique opportunity to align your professional goals with your organization’s future.

Start the conversation today, and take the next step in your career growth.

The business case for learning and development

If you're an employer looking to future-proof your organization, investing in your team’s education is a smart, cost-effective strategy. It boosts retention, strengthens internal talent, and ensures your workforce keeps pace with evolving industry needs.

These programs are designed to work around a typical schedule, so employee skills development shouldn't have any effect on their productivity.

From closing knowledge gaps to preparing future leaders, training investment leads to measurable results.

Upskill with purpose at UFred

Considering one of UFred's many programs for your professional development? If you have any questions or need support, our Program Advisors would be happy to help. Contact us at information@ufred.ca or call 1-877-454-6232 ext. 1.

Knowledge Hub

Start your journey with UFred

We make it simple to take the next step in your education. Our Program Advisors are happy to help you apply. Begin whenever works best for you.