Is Gen Y a market for professional development, or is it too early in their work life? That question was discussed at the 
Senior LERN Leader Retreat in Tucson this spring.
Susan Davis, a Gen Yer attending the retreat reported, “ In preparation for this event, I spoke with some friends and colleagues on their personal interest in continuing education and professional development.
“Some were interested and took advantage of opportunities offered through their employers. However, those who were not interested agreed that they would be willing to invest their time once they are in a career they enjoy and intend to stick with.
“Even then, they would be hesitant to spend their own money.”
Davis is Senior Coordinator, Online Learning Development for the American Society of Civil Engineers in Reston, Virginia. She is also Chair of the LERN Future Leaders Council.
Gen Y has invested heavily in college degrees and career training. The feeling in the field is that programs have generally been successful in attracting Gen Y to continuing education opportunities. But a number of programs report they are not getting Gen Y in professional development courses. So it appears there is still a question about whether Gen Y is 1) in a long term career where professional development will pay off; and 2) able to pay for continuing education or will need to rely on employers for professional development and training.
Generational expert Julie Coates, left, with Susan Davis of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Coates is author of the pioneering book, Generational Learning Styles. Click here for information or to order the book.