Bank / Credit Union

Citizens releases study on career development

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October 13, 2026

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Workers remain focused on career advancement despite economic uncertainty, according to research released Tuesday by Citizens and Jobs for the Future.

The study of 1,000 U.S. adults ages 20 to 50 without a college degree found that 77% believe acquiring new skills is the best way to improve job opportunities, and 87% are willing to make financial sacrifices to fund career training, according to a press release. Additionally, 92% said they are more likely to remain with an employer that invests in skill development.

Supported by a three-year, $20 million commitment announced in 2025, Citizens expects to deploy roughly $7.5 million in workforce development funding in 2026. The funds will support national partnerships, local investments and employee development programs.

"Workers understand that continuous learning and skills development are increasingly important to career growth," Susan LaMonica, chief human resources officer at Citizens, said in the release.

The bank's initiatives include the Citizens Community College Accelerator with Education Design Lab, which has established 12 college partnerships and launched 26 micro-credential pathways reaching nearly 900 learners. Citizens also maintains a 20-year partnership with Year Up United, having hosted nearly 500 interns and hired more than 100 alumni.