Bridging the Mid-Career Gap

The world of work is aging rapidly, and there is a demographic shift with profound implications. OECD data shows workers aged 45-64 now comprise 40% of the working-age population in member countries, up from 28% in 1990, a trend projected to continue. This raises critical questions about preparedness for an aging workforce. Targeted interventions to unlock the potential of this demographic and ensure continued prosperity are critical.

At Histadrut, we recognize the associated challenges in workforce aging. We are deeply committed to supporting mid-career workers in navigating the unfolding changes we see globally and locally. In the last few years, we have developed various specialized programs to promote mid-career workers’ well-being, health, and career advancement.

A major local challenge we identified during the COVID-19 pandemic was the misalignment of employer skill demands and worker skill sets. To close this gap, the Histadrut partnered with the Presidency of the Business Sector and the Ministry of Labor to establish The Employers’ Authority for Human Capital Development, a joint initiative to develop the locally needed skills according to the evolving demands of the Israeli labor market. While the upskilling program is open to all ages, one of the main target audiences is mid-career workers needing upskilling and reskilling. The collaborative approach of the authority ensures training is relevant and practical and delivers tangible career outcomes for workers.

The need for workers to access upskilling and reskilling has always been paramount for career advancement. To ensure workers of all classes and financial statuses can access the knowledge needed to progress, the Histadrut invests in education pathways for union members. The “Lomdim Ve Mitkadmim” (Learning and Progressing) program offers Histadrut members diverse learning opportunities for professional growth, with several programs tailored for mid-career workers. These include the Future Women Leaders program, which empowers women of 40+ aspiring to leadership roles. It offers targeted skills development and mentorship to help workers who, up to that stage in their careers, have not been promoted to leadership roles, gain the experience and confidence to break through the glass ceiling.

Recognizing the unique learning needs of mid-career individuals, “Lomdim Ve Mitkadmim” also offers dedicated learning environments for workers 40+. For both first and second degrees, these classes foster peer learning and create a supportive atmosphere for academic advancement, acknowledging the challenges of returning to education later in life. Another key offering is financial planning for retirement, a vital program for workers of 50+, providing guidance and tools for effective retirement planning that ensures that workers take advantage of the second half of their career to proactively prepare for their financial security during their retirement.

The Histadrut also understands that well-being is crucial for career success and overall quality of life. Therefore, we offer programs promoting our members’ physical and mental health. Our “Ovdim Barie” (Healthy Workers) app encourages healthier lifestyles by tracking users’ activity and remunerating them with “health coins” redeemable for subsidized health and wellness services. The app offers tailored programs for workers 40+, including a tailored nutrition program addressing the specific dietary needs of this age group and providing personalized guidance for healthy eating. Recognizing diverse fitness needs, the app also offers access to personalized and group fitness programs tailored to specific age groups and fitness levels, ensuring mid-career workers can engage in safe and effective exercise.

The Histadrut is committed to supporting mid-career workers through this critical life stage. These specialized programs empower our members with the skills, resources, and support they need to thrive, maintain well-being, and secure their financial future. We believe investing in mid-career workers is a union mission. By investing in mid-career workers, we effectively invest in the Israeli workforce’s future and our society’s prosperity.