Purpose: This study aims to examine the factors of growth-oriented atmosphere in a Finnish polytechnic institution of higher education with categorical exploratory factor analysis, multidimensional scaling and Bayesian unsupervised model-based visualization. Design/methodology/approach: This study was designed to examine employee perceptions of how their managers create conditions that support professional growth and learning, and how the employees perceive their growth motivation and commitment to the organization. Data were gathered from 447 employees with the Growth-oriented Atmosphere Questionnaire in a Finnish polytechnic institution of higher education. Findings: Results showed that the theoretical four-group classification of the growth-oriented atmosphere factors was supported by the empirical evidence. Results further showed that managers and teachers had higher growth motivation and level of commitment to work than other personnel, including job titles such as cleaner, caretaker, accountant and computer support. Employees across all job titles in the organization, who have temporary or part-time contracts, had higher self-reported growth motivation and commitment to work and organization than their established colleagues. Practical implications: Leaders in various organizations may benefit from learning what is the current professional growth status of diverse employee groups, and in understanding the potential differences in employee growth motivation. Originality/value: This study contributes to an understanding of organizational growth and learning as a non-linear process. The statistical non-linear modeling approach is novel providing research and practical example of how to use these techniques in practice. (Contains 3 tables and 4 figures.)