Continued Education
Discovering the benefits of lifelong learning both inside and outside of the office
Above: McDonald’s headquarters and Hamburger University designed by Studio O+A and IA Interior Architects. (Image by Garrett Rowland)
In our rapidly evolving world, lifelong learning is a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. With more information and details at their disposal, studies have shown that those who prioritize continuous education tend to be more motivated, focused and productive.
Historically, corporate education began with modest intent. Early programs by companies such as General Motors and General Electric focused primarily on safety and compliance training. Today, however, corporate universities are experiencing a renaissance, transforming mundane training into engaging programs that attract and retain the workforce of tomorrow. These programs now offer customized courses, workshops and even self-study options that empower employees to develop new skills and achieve personal fulfillment.
Sea Island team member completing a virtual training module.
EDUCATION AT THE SPEED OF BUSINESS
From Apple’s focus on creativity and innovation at Apple University to Disney University, which immerses employees in the magic of the Disney brand, the scope and scale of today’s corporate education is impressive. In fact, more than 2,000 companies across the United States now offer customized internal education programs tailored to meet both organizational and individual needs. These programs are designed not only to enhance specific skill sets but also to foster a culture of continuous learning and personal growth.
McDonald’s Hamburger University, founded in 1961, boasts over 275,000 graduates. With a selection rate of around 1%, the intense weeklong training program is arguably more exclusive than Harvard. Despite the school’s name, all the food in the test kitchens and labs is fake. Professors focus on leadership development, business growth and operational procedures—necessary skills to prepare attendees for leadership roles in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
According to a survey conducted by Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan American think tank based in Washington, D.C., 54% of all working Americans believe it will be essential to develop new skills throughout their working lives to advance their career; among adults under 30 the number goes up to 61%—and companies are more acutely aware than ever of the importance for their team members to have access to continued learning.
“At Sea Island, we believe that training is one of the most fundamental parts of our industry,” says Pamela Rizzo, Director of Learning and Development at Sea Island. “In its 96-year history, Sea Island has been awarded 80 Forbes Five-Star Awards, and that is solely due to the dedication and care of the team members who bring our resort to life. Sea Island University, our comprehensive learning and development program that consists of both virtual and in-person training, is crucial to keeping our team members motivated in envisioning long-term careers in hospitality.”
Apple University in Cupertino.
Room to Succeed at SIU
At Sea Island, from the moment a team member joins the company they are enrolled in Sea Island University (SIU)—a program that seamlessly incorporates in-person training sessions and online learning to help individuals gain valuable skills that support their personal and professional goals.
“The personalized service you see in our hotels starts with the personalized training we provide to our team members,” says Louise Lanier, Vice President of Human Resources at Sea Island. “SIU is just another way we are customizing learning to the individual team member.”
Within the virtual platform, team members have access to over 10,000 learning modules in over 25 languages. The courses range in curriculum, including topics such as business skills, emerging technology, leadership and management, sales, and personal development. “It isn’t just about Sea Island or hospitality,” states Lanier. “Team members will have the opportunity to learn a range of subjects, skills and knowledge.”
Virtual learning is supplemented by a wealth of in-person, instructor-led classes on topics such as luxury language, defensive driving, wellness, first aid and more. With the continued growth of SIU, team members will also benefit from competency-based job skills and leadership training curriculums for various levels.
LET CURIOSITY BE YOUR COMPASS
The emphasis on lifelong learning extends far beyond the corporate realm, reflecting a broader shift toward valuing personal growth. As a society, we are drawn towards the ideal of self-improvement. Humans want to grow, become happier and find success.
Curiosity, as noted by Dr. Emily Campbell from the University of California, Berkeley, drives this pursuit. “Curiosity helps us survive,” reports Campbell. “The urge to explore and seek novelty helps us remain vigilant and gain knowledge about our constantly changing environment, which may be why our brains evolved to release dopamine and other feel-good chemicals when we encounter and learn new things.”
American Psychological Association reports that, “Curiosity is the single most important trait that leads to more enjoyment and participation in academic achievement, as well as greater learning, engagement and performance at work.” When individuals remain curious about what they are doing, it’s easier to get involved, put in the effort and do well.
In her book, “Mindset,” psychologist Carol Dweck champions this notion by stating that, “Success comes from having the right mindset rather than intelligence, talent or education.” A curious and adaptable mindset promotes resilience and a love of learning, equipping individuals to handle change more effectively.
“At Sea Island, a commitment to lifelong learning is integral to our team members’ success,” says Louise Lanier, Vice President of Human Resources at Sea Island. “To foster that belief, team members are eligible for educational assistance for courses taken that help advance their career at Sea Island, to prepare for additional responsibility or are necessary for completion of a degree from an accredited college or university.”
Companies that offer this kind of education assistance benefit are actively investing in their team members’ futures and are removing barriers for those who may feel like continuing education is too expensive or that they are simply too busy to learn new skills. Similarly, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ ongoing partnership with Strayer University, offering its employees the opportunity to earn an online degree free of charge, exemplifies how corporate support for education can yield significant benefits.
Google headquarters in Silicon Valley
EMBRACING TOMORROW
Depending on the selected program of study, Strayer courses range from business administration and accounting to education, information systems and other areas. Dealerships that participated in the program experienced nearly 40% higher employee retention and 17% higher revenue growth than non-participating dealers.
In today’s fast-paced digital era, continuing education is paramount in developing skills that are needed to tackle technology on the horizon, with skills such as coding and data analysis becoming increasingly vital. As stated by The Economist, nearly half of the high-paying job postings now require coding skills. Over the past five years, demand for data analysts has grown by 372%; within that segment, demand for data-visualization skills has shot up by 2,574%.
Companies that prioritize continuous education for their team may find themselves better positioned to navigate these technological advancements of tomorrow and maintain a competitive edge. For employees, embracing a curious mindset can be a path to personal enrichment. Corporate universities are where the two meet—creating the potential for each to thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing world.