CT health system named top employer for career growth, according to survey

Hartford Courant – Wednesday, October 29, 2025
By Staff Report

Where would you choose to work for career growth?

A survey by Careerminds asked 3,002 employees “which company they would most like to join if career development and upskilling opportunities were the only criteria.”

For Connecticut, the top choice was Hartford HealthCare, according to Careerminds: “Hartford HealthCare appears in the survey as a leading choice for career stability in Connecticut’s healthcare sector. Existing staff point to clear advancement opportunities in nursing, administration, and allied health, backed by strong educational partnerships. The organization continues to be recognized as a workplace where employees can grow while delivering care across the state’s largest health system.”

Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford came in second for the state, according to the survey, “because it remains one of Connecticut’s most influential aerospace employers, powering both commercial and military aviation. Employees value the company’s structured career tracks in engineering and operations, supported by ongoing technical training. Pratt & Whitney stands out as a place where professionals can advance while contributing to globally recognized innovation in jet engines.”

According to Careerminds, Cigna out of Bloomfield took the third slot: “Respondents rated Cigna highly because it remains a major player in the insurance and healthcare services industry, headquartered in Connecticut. Employees highlight the company’s investment in professional development, with structured training and mobility across departments. Cigna continues to offer long-term career pathways in an industry adapting quickly to digital transformation.”

“Upskilling isn’t a side project – it’s the heartbeat of a modern career,” said Raymond Lee, President of Careerminds, in a statement. “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.”

Additionally, Careerminds asked respondents about AI. Here is what they had to say:

“The 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% 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% “somewhat confident” and 17% stuck in the “unsure” column.
• Career frameworks and loyalty: A striking 73% said they’d be “much more likely” to stay with a company long-term if it provided a transparent career framework. Only 8% 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% wanted a clear framework with defined steps.
• 29% preferred mentorship or leadership programs.
• 15% highlighted ongoing training to keep pace with AI.
• And the biggest group – 34% – chose opportunities to move into new departments or roles.

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