South Carolinians Name Prisma Health as the Top Employer For Career Growth, Survey Finds

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Officials with Careerminds say that upskilling isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a career survival strategy. The pace of change in most industries means that what was cutting-edge five years ago is often outdated today. By learning new skills, you stay relevant, competitive, and open to opportunities that might otherwise pass you by. It also signals to employers that you are adaptable and forward-thinking, qualities that carry weight no matter your field. In many cases, upskilling can be the difference between plateauing and progressing.

To explore just how much this matters to workers, Careerminds, a global outplacement and career development firm, surveyed 3,002 employees and asked them which company they would most like to join if career development and upskilling opportunities were the only criteria. The results revealed some deeply local loyalties:

The top three choices in South Carolina were:

Prisma Health, GreenvillePrisma Health stands out in the survey as South Carolina’s largest healthcare provider, with hospitals and clinics across the state. Staff point to clear career progression in nursing, administration, and medical specialties supported by professional development programs. Prisma remains a trusted employer where professional growth is directly connected to serving community health.

Michelin North America, GreenvilleRespondents rated Michelin highly because it continues to be one of South Carolina’s most established international employers, with its U.S. headquarters in Greenville. Employees highlight opportunities for advancement in engineering, manufacturing, and operations, supported by training programs. Michelin remains a workplace where global innovation and career development go hand in hand.

Boeing South Carolina, North CharlestonSurvey respondents highlighted Boeing’s North Charleston operations because it remains one of the state’s largest manufacturing employers, producing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Employees value structured training programs and technical pathways that support advancement in aerospace. Boeing continues to be recognized as a place where careers are built around innovation and long-term industry stability.

In other states, highlights included:

Maine: L.L.BeanFor Mainers, the top spot went to L.L.Bean. This isn’t just about flannel shirts and duck boots —it’s about a company that has built pathways for store staff to rise into management and corporate roles. Many respondents pointed to the training programs that help employees leap from seasonal retail into long-term careers. The and’s heritage may be rooted in tradition, but its people see a future where career growth is built in.

Missouri: Boeing Defense, Space & SecurityMissourians showed their practical streak, singling out Boeing Defense, Space & Security. As one of the state’s largest employers, Boeing offers not just jobs but structured career ladders in aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Workers here see Boeing as a place where you don’t just clock in — you pick up new technical expertise that can carry you through decades of industry shifts.

Oregon: NikeOregonians, perhaps unsurprisingly, set their sights on Nike. But it’s not only about the swoosh on a paycheck. Respondents talked about Nike’s culture of constant reinvention — how designers, marketers, and operations staff alike are encouraged to upskill, experiment, and carve out careers across departments. For many, Nike represents a workplace where professional growth isn’t a perk; it’s part of the brand DNA.

Wisconsin: Harley-DavidsonIn Wisconsin, loyalty roared in with Harley-Davidson. Beyond the thunder of engines, the company is viewed as a guardian of craftsmanship and technical expertise. Workers praised the structured advancement in engineering and design, noting how Harley’s training programs let you grow alongside an iconic name. For locals, it’s the rare employer that offers both legacy and learning under one roof.

Hawaii: Hawaiian AirlinesMeanwhile, Hawaii’s workers kept their eyes on the skies. Hawaiian Airlines came out as the dream employer, largely because of its emphasis on long-term skill development. Pilots, crew, and service staff alike benefit from ongoing training that ensures careers can span decades. At a time when tourism drives so much of the state’s economy, Hawaiian Airlines is seen not just as an airline but as a steady ladder to the future.

Interactive map showing the top choices by state (click on 'embed' to host on your site):

While the state results reveal where people picture themselves thriving, the survey also dug deeper into how employees feel about their own futures. Beyond naming dream employers, respondents shared candid views on whether their current workplaces are doing enough to prepare them for tomorrow’s challenges.

How Workers Feel About the FutureThe survey didn’t just stop at naming employers - it also looked at how people view their own career security in a world of automation and AI.

• Confidence in preparation: 42 percent of workers said they feel “very confident” their employer is preparing them for seismic changes like AI. But a quarter admitted they’re not confident at all, with 16 percent “somewhat confident” and 17 percent stuck in the “unsure” column.
• Career frameworks and loyalty: A striking 73 percent said they’d be “much more likely” to stay with a company long-term if it provided a transparent career framework. Only 8 percent said it would make no difference, while the rest leaned toward “somewhat more likely.”

When asked what would increase loyalty the most, workers split their answers:

• 22 percent wanted a clear framework with defined steps.
• 29 percent preferred mentorship or leadership programs.
• 15 percent highlighted ongoing training to keep pace with AI.
• And the biggest group - 34 percent - chose opportunities to move into new departments or roles.

Commenting on the findings, Raymond Lee, President of Careerminds, said: “Upskilling isn’t a side project - it’s the heartbeat of a modern career. What really stood out in this survey is that employees don’t just want training; they want a clear map of where it can take them. The core message appears to be: growth equals loyalty.”

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