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.
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
At UFred, we make it simple for businesses to support employee training and development. Our fully online programs are designed for working professionals, a practical training investment where you can keep learning without stepping away from your career.
Here are just a few UFred programs that align with employer-sponsored goals:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The MBA program equips you with management, finance, and operational skills, plus a strong leadership foundation.
Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
The EMBA program covers the same core principles as our MBA, with a focus on executive strategy and industry leadership.
Associate Degree or Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (AOHS/COHSES)
The AOHS program and COHSES program ensure your workforce is both compliant and proactive in health and safety best practices.
Certificate of Psychological Health and Safety (PHS)
The PHS program builds awareness and strategies for mental wellness and resilience at work.
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? You can find more information about UFred's programs. 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.
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