Practical Skills Now More Valuable to European Workers Than Degrees, Amazon Study Says

In a significant shift in career development preferences, more than half of European workers (54%) now believe that on-the-job skills training or apprenticeships are more valuable for preparing people for work today than traditional university degrees. This insight comes from the Amazon Future of Work & Career Development European study that analyzed career and workplace trends.

The study, conducted by Ipsos, surveyed 16,482 adults across eight European markets, including Spain, Germany, the U.K., France, Italy, Slovakia, Czech Republic, and Poland. The findings highlight a growing demand for practical, hands-on training as a means to secure employment and advance careers.

Workers are recognizing the importance of accessible training programs in bridging the gap between education and employment as 73% of respondents expressed the need for a wider range of apprenticeship or internship opportunities for young people. 

The study revealed that an overwhelming majority of European employees (89%) consider learning new skills crucial for improving or changing their career paths, surpassing the importance of receiving a promotion (73%). 

This reflects a broader recognition of continuous skill development as essential for career longevity and adaptability in a rapidly evolving job market.

When evaluating potential job opportunities, 91% of adults emphasized the importance of on-the-job training or career development programs, ranking it higher than company culture (78%). This preference indicates that workers value tangible support for their professional growth, which can lead to increased motivation, encouragement, and a sense of being valued within their organizations.

Financial constraints also play a role in the desire for on-the-job training, with nearly one in five workers (19%) admitting they cannot afford to pay for training independently. This highlights the critical need for employer-sponsored training programs to ensure equitable access to career advancement opportunities.

The study’s findings come at a time when many European workers are concerned about their future relevance in the job market. Approximately 32% worry they lack the necessary training and skills to remain competitive, while 67% believe ongoing retraining and skill updates are essential for continued employment.

Despite this, only 15% of employees report having access to training that could help them change their career path, and 22% say they have no access to training through their current employer. 

These statistics point to a significant gap in the availability of career development resources, which employers must address to meet the evolving needs of their workforce.

As AI tools continue to change what it takes to remain relevant in the job market, the emphasis on practical skills training and apprenticeships is likely to grow. Employers who invest in comprehensive training programs will not only enhance their employees’ capabilities but also foster a more motivated and loyal workforce.