More than 3,000 employees have signed up for the program
Amazon Canada has announced that its Career Choice employee benefit program has seen significant growth in 2023, with over 3,000 eligible employees signing up to participate.
“Amazon's Career Choice program is a cornerstone of our commitment to our frontline employees' professional growth and development,” said Tammy Thieman, global director of the Career Choice program.
“We are thrilled to see such a significant increase in participation in Canada this year, as it underscores the importance of investing in our team's education and career aspirations,” added Thieman.
The Career Choice program is a paid education benefit that aimed towards helping eligible frontline employees learn new career skills. They will be able to earn a certificate or diploma in qualified fields of study such as transportation, technology, administration, and business services.
Through the program, Amazon Canada pays up to 95 percent of tuition and reimburses fees and book costs with an annual and lifetime limit. For every calendar year, the program funds up to $3,000 for eligible full-time and reduced-time employees, while eligible part-time employees receive up to $1,500. The benefit is available for four consecutive years with a lifetime limit of $12,000.
The program is offered in partnership with over 20 educational institutions in Canada.
“It's paramount for employers to recognize that investing in their employees' education not only benefits the individuals but also fosters a more skilled, engaged, and dedicated workforce,” said Gary Hepburn, dean of the G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Toronto Metropolitan University, one of the institutions who have partnered with Amazon Canada.
“This collaborative effort underscores the profound importance of companies championing continuous learning and career advancement, ultimately creating a win-win scenario for both employers and their valued staff members,” Hepburn said.
What Amazon Canada employees are saying
One of the recent graduates of the program is Raisa Kalash who worked at an Amazon fulfilment centre in Ontario. She was able to pursue her Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) certification in two years at Toronto Metropolitan University.
“The program allowed me to broaden my knowledge and experience in the field of human resources, giving me a better understanding of my strengths and passions,” said Kalash.
“The program's emphasis on personal and professional growth made it an incredibly rewarding experience,” she said.
“We are committed to continuing the growth of this program and supporting even more employees in their professional journey,” said Thieman.
The Career Choice program was first launched in 2014.
