Creating a culture of learning

You don’t know what you don’t know.  

I love that phrase. It reminds me to stay curious and it keeps me humble.  

Embracing a learning mindset is directly related to progress, especially for those of us who work in healthcare. Scientific discoveries are happening faster than ever and advances in AI, machine learning, and data science are changing how we work. At the same time, I understand how hard it can be to keep up with all the latest innovations as well as day-to-day responsibilities. 

To prioritize learning, Johnson & Johnson recently held our first Global Learning Day. I suspect some of my 130,000 colleagues were surprised to receive an eight-hour calendar hold from me—and relieved to find out it wasn’t for a meeting. Quite the opposite: It was an invitation to set aside a full day—free of calls and work commitments—so they could explore skill-building courses on J&J Learn, our new state-of-the-art AI-guided learning platform.  

Employees started the day reflecting on their values, interests, and career aspirations through three online exercises. The J&J Learn platform algorithm then recommended a custom learning plan across five areas—leadership, business skills, digital upskilling, DEI, and well-being—based on the individual’s areas of interest.  

I made sure to sign up for the digital basecamp. From my brief stint as J&J’s interim CIO, I discovered I had an interest in technology, and I want to keep my digital skills sharp. I also attended a live session focused on Purpose and Career, where employees shared what motivates them at work. Hearing employees’ personal motivation, or why they come to work every day, was the highlight of my day!  

Our Global Learning Day was a huge success. Overall, our employees spent 70,000 hours on 109,000 different J&J Learn sessions. Among the most popular courses were Cultivating Mental Agility, Purpose and Career Worksheet, and a panel discussion on generative AI.  

This level of engagement from employees represents a real desire to improve and find meaning in what we do. According to a recent Gallup Poll, nearly two-thirds of workers say that employer-provided upskilling is very important when evaluating whether to accept a new job.   

This is why I’m proud that Johnson & Johnson is committed to creating a culture of learning. This is one of the things that makes J&J such a special place to work.  

After 34 years at Johnson & Johnson, I’m a prime example of how our commitment to lifelong learning can open doors to opportunity. I am Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in part because of the many chances I had to learn and to find my strengths and passions.   

Solving the world’s toughest health challenges is going to require more than just an industry-leading R&D budget. Johnson & Johnson will continue to invest in our employees in creative new ways—and Global Learning Day was just the beginning. 

#GoLearn #JNJ #Careers