In a new survey by StudyFinds, a quarter of Americans fear that they could lose their job this year. The survey examined 2,000 employed adults and observed how they see themselves in their current roles where they found shocking results of uncertainty and fear. Twenty-five percent say their concerns stem from distress about the job market while 22 percent say that their concerns stem from knowing they work in an unstable business or industry. Many respondents also say they face challenges when it comes to keeping up with their professions. Thirty-two percent are worried that they’re falling behind or lack the skills they need to be successful while 55 percent say they feel like they've been doing the same job for years.

According to another study by OnePoll for CSU Global, many Americans are looking to learn new skills. A majority of those surveyed are interested in upskilling at their current job (78 percent). For some, getting a certificate of completion from a class (35 percent) would teach them the skills they’re looking for, while one in four would be interested in getting a degree or a second degree. According to the respondents, 54 percent of them believe the skills needed to be successful in their workplace are different than they were just five years ago.

“In an era of rapid technological advancements and a dynamic job market, expanding your skills and knowledge is paramount for remaining competitive and sought after by both current and prospective employers,” says Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker, president of CSU Global, in a statement. “As workforce and industry needs continue to change, it is important that institutions of education and industry leaders work together to provide the tools and training necessary for individuals to excel in their professions and in the workplace.”

Eighty-two percent of respondents said that if their job offered them an upskilling opportunity or program within the next six months, they would be interested in it. “Asynchronous online learning provides unparalleled flexibility and affordability for learners who are managing busy personal and professional schedules,” Dr. Takeda-Tinker explains. “With high-quality online education, individuals can optimize their career growth while still meeting their family, workplace, and community commitments. Not all programs are created equal, however, so it is important to seek a program from an accredited institution with courses taught by credentialed and experienced faculty instructors, that also has fully online academic and career support resources to facilitate learner success.”