Learning environments and experiences for future workforce development: A case study of DVET in a medium-sized enterprise

Background The transition to Industry 5.0 prioritizes an enterprise’s workforce, which elevates learning into a modern organizational strategy. This exploratory study focuses on constructing a learning environment for Dual Vocational Education and Training (DVET) students in a medium-sized company faced with limited resources. Objective The exploratory study intends to gain preliminary insights into the relation between educational environments and experiences and behavioral changes and workplace readiness. Method Data was collected from the entire first cohort of DVET program in two stages—during and post DVET. Open-end questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and discussions with the business owner were analyzed by using Content Analysis (CA) and Thematic Analysis (TA). Results The findings reveal that experiential learning, mentoring, and constructive feedback relate to behavior changes and workforce readiness. Psychological safety within the organizational system serves as a stimulus for students’ learning interests and motivation to learn. These changes include self-confidence, discipline, communication, and professional identity. Conclusion As Small and Medium Enterprises or SMEs embrace Industry 5.0, improving the balance between technology and workforce development becomes a priority. This exploratory study highlights the importance of learning experiences and workplace environments are essential, particularly vocational education graduates who earlier felt disengaged from schools.