The automaker has teamed with Strayer University to develop the initiative, known as Degrees@Work, which is said to be the first of its kind in the automotive industry.
The program is open to any Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram or Fiat franchise dealer in the US market, enabling employees of participating dealers to earn no-cost, debt-free college degrees from Strayer University. The accredited school offers associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a range of fields, with classes available both online and in brick-and-mortar classrooms.
“Many of our dealers have expressed concern over the availability of talent to fill open positions due to business growth and turnover in their stores, especially in metro markets,” said Chrysler brand chief Al Gardner. “Our goal is to position our dealer network as the ‘employers of choice.’ Our collaboration with Strayer demonstrates our focus on building our dealers’ hard-working employees’ skillsets to help them perform at an optimal level while also investing in their long-term success.”
The first phase will be focused on FCA dealers in the company’s Southeast Business Center, encompassing franchises in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee. Credit will be offered to employees for training and work experience to help accelerate work toward a degree.
“With the increasing cost of a college education, offering free college degrees without the burden of debt presents a significant value that we are pleased to provide and that differentiates us from our competitors,” Gardner added. “It will certainly help us attract and retain strong talent.”
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