Navigating the demands of a shifting economy requires a workforce that continuously adapts to new challenges. The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies has transformed industries, creating both opportunities and challenges. While much attention is given to equipping those entering the workforce with the skills of tomorrow, an equally compelling case exists for investing in skill development for midcareer and older professionals. For funders, this presents a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change, enhance workforce resilience, and strengthen economic productivity.

Addressing the Skill Gap Among Midcareer Workers

The workplace is evolving at an unprecedented pace. As revealed in our report, “Age-Proofing AI,” older professionals can be overlooked due to a perception of outdated skill sets, even though they bring decades of experience, strong work ethics, and valuable industry insights.

This oversight not only hampers individuals’ ability to grow but also deprives businesses and society of their potential contributions. For funders, addressing this gap is a strategic investment in long-term economic health.

Why Midcareer Skill Building Matters

Economic Productivity

Older professionals represent a significant portion of the workforce. When they are empowered with the right skills, they can continue to contribute effectively, ensuring sustained economic growth. Research consistently shows that skilled workers boost innovation, productivity, and overall business success, making this demographic an untapped resource for economic advancement.

A Well-Rounded Workforce

Involving older workers in skill development programs allows for a broader range of ages, perspectives, and experiences within the workforce. This variety drives creativity and problem-solving within organizations, creating a more dynamic and adaptive workforce. Older professionals bring unique insights and institutional knowledge, which, when combined with new technical skills, can lead to transformative outcomes.

Intergenerational Collaboration

Skill-building programmes for midcareer professionals facilitate knowledge-sharing across generations. Older workers, equipped with updated skills, can act as mentors while learning alongside younger colleagues, fostering an environment of mutual respect and learning.

Key Areas for Impactful Upskilling

To effectively prepare midcareer professionals for the future of work, funders should focus on key areas of upskilling that align with evolving industry needs. Among these, artificial intelligence (AI), digital literacy, and leadership development stand out as high-impact areas.

Artificial Intelligence Training

AI is reshaping industries, yet many midcareer professionals lack the training and support that would enable them to harness its potential. From data analysis and automation to machine learning applications, AI skills are no longer optional — they are essential. Investing in AI training for older professionals offers several key benefits:

• Boosting employability: With the right training, midcareer professionals can transition into high-demand roles, bridging labor shortages in critical industries such as healthcare, logistics, and technology.
• Driving business growth: Companies with AI-ready employees at all levels can better innovate and compete in the global market. Older professionals with AI expertise can offer strategic insights, leveraging their experience to navigate complex challenges.
• Fostering lifelong learning: AI training establishes a culture of continuous learning, ensuring that midcareer professionals remain adaptable and resilient amid industry disruptions.

Digital Literacy and Technology Skills

Beyond AI, digital literacy forms the foundation for engaging with today’s tech-driven workplace. Upskilling in areas like cloud computing, data management, and cybersecurity ensures midcareer professionals remain competitive and equipped to address emerging challenges.

• Enhanced adaptability: Digital literacy equips professionals to quickly adapt to new tools and platforms, enabling them to stay relevant as technology evolves.
• Improved problem solving: Proficiency in digital tools allows older workers to efficiently analyze data and implement solutions, increasing productivity.
• Increased job security: As industries digitize, workers with strong digital skills are more likely to secure stable and fulfilling employment.
• Support for remote work: Digital literacy enables professionals to thrive in hybrid or remote work environments, fostering flexibility and work-life balance.

Leadership and Strategic Thinking

Midcareer professionals often bring valuable experience, but strategic thinking and change management are increasingly vital skills in today’s dynamic work environment. Investing in leadership training not only enhances individual career trajectories but also strengthens organizational performance by equipping leaders to drive innovation and transformation.

• Enhanced decision-making: Leadership training helps professionals develop the analytical skills needed to make informed, strategic decisions under pressure.
• Effective change management: Skilled leaders can guide teams through transitions, fostering resilience and ensuring smooth implementation of new initiatives.
• Mentorship opportunities: Leadership programs empower midcareer professionals to mentor younger colleagues, facilitating knowledge transfer and team cohesion.
• Boosted organizational culture: Strong leadership fosters a positive work environment, encouraging collaboration, innovation, and employee satisfaction.

Industry-Specific Technical Skills

Tailoring upskilling efforts to meet specific industry demands can maximize impact. For example, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and healthcare all require specialized training, presenting opportunities to align skill development with economic growth sectors.

The Role of Funders in Driving Change

Philanthropic funders are uniquely positioned to address the systemic challenges facing midcareer professionals. By supporting targeted skill-building initiatives, they can unlock significant social and economic value. Here’s how funders can make an impact:

Invest in Tailored Programmes

• Fund programs specifically designed for midcareer and older professionals, ensuring that training is accessible, flexible, and aligned with industry needs.
• Support initiatives that provide wraparound services, such as career coaching and mentorship, to address the unique challenges faced by older workers.

Promote Awareness and Advocacy

• Advocate for the involvement of older workers in national and regional workforce development policies.
• Partner with organizations like Generation to amplify the importance of midcareer upskilling through public awareness campaigns.

Leverage Data for Better Outcomes

• Invest in research to identify skill gaps and emerging industry trends, ensuring that programs remain relevant.
• Support longitudinal studies to track the long-term impact of skill-building initiatives, providing evidence for scaling successful models.

Encourage Employer Partnerships

• Collaborate with employers to design training programs that align with real-world business needs.
• Incentivise companies to hire and retain older professionals, creating pathways for sustainable employment.

Partnering With Generation for Lasting Impact

By focusing on practical, outcome-driven skills training tailored to specific industries, Generation has consistently delivered results for learners and employers alike:

• 82% of employment program graduates are placed in jobs within six months of program completion globally.
• 76% of alumni 2-5 years after graduation continue to be employed
• 19,000+ employers have hired our graduates, and 87% would definitely hire Generation graduates again.
• 79% of graduates employed in the last 12 months were hired by repeat employers.

We invite funders to join us in transforming the future of work, ensuring that no professional is left behind in the age of AI. Partner with Generation today to empower midcareer professionals, strengthen communities, and build a resilient, thriving workforce.

At Generation, we are making a life-changing career available to anyone, anywhere. Explore our employment programs to see the professions we support, or donate today to help us create career opportunities for our learners!