Synchrony has launched a new program enabling eligible U.S. employees to earn debt-free associate degrees in high-demand skilled trades, addressing a critical talent shortage in the sector. Announced on July 8, 2026, at the Women in the Trades forum in West Chester, Ohio, the initiative allows employees with three months of service to pursue degrees in fields such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and welding. The program aims to build skills necessary for data center operations and advanced mechanics, supporting both employee career growth and the industries Synchrony serves.

Addressing the Skills Gap

The launch comes in response to accelerating demand for skilled trade professionals, with nearly 500,000 jobs currently unfilled in the U.S. and an estimated 2.1 million additional positions potentially going unfilled by 2030. As smart systems and AI tools become standard, the company noted that technicians increasingly need a combination of hands-on expertise and digital fluency. This program is designed to create a pipeline of job-ready talent to fill these vital roles.

Program Details and Partnerships

Through a partnership with Bright Horizons EdAssist, Synchrony employees can access a network of more than 20 technical colleges, community colleges, and trade-school programs. The offering includes flexible learning models such as paid apprenticeships, employer-based training, and hybrid or on-campus options with hands-on lab work.

Strategic Impact and Community Investment

Synchrony's leadership emphasized that the program not only provides a debt-free pathway to degrees but also supports small and medium-sized businesses in the home ecosystem by reducing backlogs and improving response times for repairs. The Synchrony Foundation has donated $150,000 to Women in HVACR for scholarships and nearly $1 million to skilled trade programs nationwide since 2021. This initiative is part of the company's broader "Education as an Equalizer" effort to broaden access to education and financial literacy.

Industry Collaboration

The Women in the Trades forum convened leaders from various organizations, including Women in HVACR, Women in the Flooring Industry, and National Women in Roofing. Participants discussed strategies for board-level training, mentorship, and leadership development. Corporate attendees included representatives from Bosch Home Comfort Group, Floor & Decor, Mitsubishi Electric Heating & Air Conditioning, Rheem, and ServiceTitan.

Synchrony has announced executive leadership changes within its Digital platform and Technology and Operations organizations to advance innovation and customer experience. Carol Juel has been appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Synchrony's Digital platform, reporting to Brian Doubles, President and Chief Executive Officer. She succeeds Bart Schaller, who is retiring after a 35-year career with the company.

Juel will be responsible for advancing innovation, customer experience, and consumer financing capabilities for digital-first partners including Amazon, PayPal, Venmo, and Verizon. She previously served as Executive Vice President, Chief Technology and Operating Officer, where she led the Technology and Operations organizations and drove the modernization of platforms and customer experiences.

Technology and Operations Leadership

Florin Arghirescu has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, reporting to Doubles. He will lead the Technology team and oversee enterprise technology strategy and execution, including the company's AI agenda, engineering, and platform capabilities. Arghirescu brings over 25 years of experience in technology and product development leadership roles.

People and Operations Expansion

DJ Casto will expand his scope as Executive Vice President, Chief People and Operations Officer, continuing to report to Doubles. He will retain leadership of Human Resources while assuming responsibility for Operations, including servicing, collections, and customer care. His focus will be on operational excellence and enhancing customer experience capabilities.