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How Offering Debt-Free College Transformed One Chick-fil-A Operator’s Business
By covering tuition costs for his team members, Operator Waylon Willoughby has not only changed the lives of his team members but also strengthened retention, increased engagement, and built a culture of growth, proving that investing in education is an investment in the future of his business.
What started as an exciting recruiting tool quickly became an even greater asset for retention. Instead of leaving for school, team members now stay, continue their education, and deepen their commitment to the business. Willoughby has found that investing in education isn’t just about providing a benefits. It’s about empowering his team to think critically and apply what they learn directly to the restaurant. As a result, engagement has soared, with employees seeing their roles as more than just a job.
I initially thought tuition-free college would be a big recruiting tool, but it's been even more valuable for retention. Instead of leaving for school, team members stay, continue their education, and remain committed to our business." — Waylon
With a simple flat-rate investment, Willoughby can send unlimited team members to college, whether they’re just out of high school or returning after a decade away. The flexibility of online classes ensures that education fits into their lives without disrupting work schedules. Looking back, he encourages other Operators to consider employer-sponsored education as a powerful retention tool, one that not only supports employees’ futures but also strengthens the foundation of a thriving business.
I saw that for one flat rate, I could send unlimited team members to college, helping them graduate debt-free. To me, it's a pretty cool bang for my buck....
...If an operator is considering tuition-free college, I’d encourage them to think about how big of a retention tool it is. Team members who may not have known they had another option now get to graduate debt-free while staying part of our team. — Waylon
Waylon Willoughby’s commitment to investing in his team goes far beyond the workplace. By offering employer-sponsored education, he’s not only helping his team members earn degrees without financial burden but also shaping their futures in ways they never imagined. Team members describe his generosity as life-changing. Some have had their student debt erased, others have been given financial freedom to make major life decisions, like buying a home or advancing their careers. For many, the opportunity to pursue a college degree wasn’t an option until Waylon made it possible with education benefits. The impact is evident not just in their personal lives but in the workplace as well.
- Increase in team member retention
- Improvement in leadership pipeline & recruitment efforts
- Greater employee engagement and job satisfaction
You see team members show up to work differently when they’re also pursuing their education. They become more disciplined, more motivated, and more passionate about what they do. – Melanie
Ready to See the Same Results in Your Restaurant?
Waylon Willoughby’s story is proof that debt-free college isn’t just a benefit, it’s a powerful business strategy. From stronger retention to deeper engagement, the impact of investing in your team through education is both measurable and meaningful.
With a simple flat-rate investment, you can offer a debt-free pathway to college for your entire team.
