Invested in Europe: How Mattel equips children with the skills to thrive
What difference can a Barbie make? A lot! Recent findings from research commissioned by Mattel show that children develop critical social skills by playing with dolls, just like when they play with others. Children develop empathy, creativity and information processing – the building blocks of success – when they are simply given the chance to play. Learn more about this and other stories of American companies’ commitment to the communities they interact with and the places they call home on Invested in Europe.

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Advancing skills for Europe’s AI transition
On Tuesday, 30 June, AmCham EU hosted a roundtable exploring strategies for preparing Europe’s workforce for the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Members and policymakers analysed how AI is changing roles across sectors and how employers, governments and education providers can respond. Joined by Idoia Mendia, MEP (ES, S&D) and Mario Nava, Director-General, Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission, the conversation focused on digital and data skills, as well as expanding AI literacy across organisations. Participants also discussed reskilling and public-private cooperation to support a more inclusive labour market. In addition, members shared best practices from their companies and pointed to the need for policy frameworks that support lifelong learning and skills-based hiring. As AI becomes part of everyday work, Europe must close the skills gap to strengthen competitiveness and prepare people for the future of work.
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Relay for Life 2026
From Saturday, 13 to Sunday, 14 June, AmCham EU staff, members, alumni and their families took part in the 24 hour Relay for Life at the Stade du Pachy in Waterloo, Belgium. Together, they walked, campaigned and raised funds to support the fight against cancer. For all involved, staying on the track for a full day was a small but meaningful way to honour the perseverance of those living with cancer and to show support for their loved ones. Couldn't join us? You can still make a contribution here.
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Investing in Europe’s aerospace take-off
In the coming decades, advanced manufacturing will play a critical role in strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, industrial resilience and employment base. GE Aerospace is supporting this ambition through major investments in innovative facilities, workforce development and skills training across Europe. The company recently announced more than €110 million to upgrade manufacturing sites in the Czech Republic, Italy, Poland, Romania and the UK, following significant European investments in 2024 and 2025. Alongside these upgrades, GE Aerospace is helping build the next generation of aerospace talent through apprenticeships, student programmes and reskilling initiatives that create pathways into high-quality careers. These efforts demonstrate how investment in manufacturing, innovation and people can help Europe’s aerospace sector take off. Read the full story on Invested in Europe.
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