A growing number of American workers feel like they’re losing control over their professional lives. A recent report from the University of Phoenix Career Institute reveals that 21% of U.S. employees believe their career paths are no longer in their hands, and many feel this sense of powerlessness has worsened over the past five years. Burnout is at an all-time high, with half of the surveyed workforce reporting they feel exhausted and overwhelmed. Most admit they’re just hoping to get through the year, not necessarily moving forward in any meaningful way.
The Career Optimism Index underscores a pivotal moment for employers. The next few years will separate companies that invest in their people from those that fall behind. When workers don’t see career growth, they’re more than 50% more likely to burn out. The data is clear: people want to feel like they’re moving forward, and if they don’t, motivation drops. Training and development are key. Seventy-one percent of workers said learning new skills is essential to grow their careers, and 86% are actively searching for opportunities to do so. But many feel stuck—43% don’t have access to the training they need.
Meanwhile, businesses seem to be taking a different approach. Sixty percent of employers admit they’d rather hire someone new than train their current teams. Since 2022, investments in employee upskilling and reskilling have dropped significantly. That gap between what workers want and what employers provide is fueling disengagement and turnover. It’s not just a matter of morale—it’s about performance and future-readiness.
Adding another layer, companies are rushing to adopt AI tools, but they’re not always preparing their people for this shift. Many tech hiring managers say organizations are hiring AI talent too fast without creating a sustainable talent pipeline. Only about one-third of employees receive any AI training, even as AI becomes more common on the job. Interestingly, those currently in training or education are much more likely to use AI tools effectively.
The takeaway is simple: employers who don’t invest in their people risk falling behind. Supporting career growth through learning and development isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must. When companies prioritize internal talent development, they unlock productivity, loyalty, and long-term success.
