> very common today... the majority of companies that no longer train or encourage career development.

I don't get this. What is stopping anyone from doing that themselves? Why does someone else have to do it?

It's investing in your workforce and demonstrates a level of respect and supports loyalty. No, the lack never stopped me from learning. Professional experience however is valued more highly than... yes I fired up ABC at home. Or I led a team doing XYZ and now can do that for my employer.