Tyson Foods Inc. announced on Monday that it will invest $60 million to provide free college education to all 120,000 U.S. employees.
"Beginning this summer, U.S. team members will have the ability to attain master's, undergraduate and associate degrees, career certificates and literacy and technology fundamentals – all for free," Tyson said in a news release.
The biggest meat company in the country has partnered with Guild, a social impact company, and its Upward Academy that works with 35 different universities to include more than 175 programs for students. The Upward Academy has been around since 2016 and is available onsite at 46 Tyson locations.
"This commitment to our team members reinforces our belief that they are the lifeblood of our current and future success, John R. Tyson, the Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Tyson Foods, said in the news release. "Providing equity and opportunity to every single member of our team is part of our goal to make Tyson the most sought-after place to work.
"Providing education benefits will continue to lay a foundation for personal and career growth for our team members."
Including online education, there will be over 200 programs available for Tyson employees at all of their locations.
Meatpacking companies like Tyson have dealt with their fair share of struggles during the labor shortage since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Bloomberg.
In an effort to recruit more workers, Tyson has followed rival company JBS USA's lead to offer free college education to employees. JBS USA started to offer free college last year for its employees.
"Free education is the latest example of Tyson’s efforts to invest in its team members," Tyson said in the news release. "The company invested more than $500 million in wage increases and bonuses for its hourly workforce last year. In addition, it is piloting subsidized and onsite childcare, as well as seven free, near-site health centers. An increasing number of Tyson production facilities are also offering more flexible work schedules."
Tyson employees will be offered courses and programs in "key business priorities," "foundational learning programs," and "executive education certificates."
"We are thrilled to partner with Tyson to further empower their team members to pursue career pathways that will help them open the doors to their dreams," Rachel Romer Carlson, CEO of Guild, said. "Tyson’s free education and upskilling program is enhancing its commitment to creating a top work environment and a workplace of growth."
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