How to show X amount of Short Text fields based on users answers?

Is there a way to create an IF statement like so:

If they answer they have 5 employees, then the form will automatically populate 5 short text answers below for them to fill out their names?

Yes, this is possible through conditions: https://www.jotform.com/help/316-How-to-Show-or-Hide-Fields-Base-on-User-s-Answer

Please see this example:

Result:

Also, just to let you know, we have dynamic widgets which allows the users to add as many fields as they want to, you may try the Dynamic Textbox: https://widgets.jotform.com/widget/dynamic_textbox

If you need to add it to an existing form, please follow this guide: https://www.jotform.com/help/252-How-to-Add-a-Widget-to-Your-Form

Please note that the results of the Dynamic Textbox will all be grouped into one cell if you export it to Excel or CSV.

Let us know if you have more questions, we will be glad to assist you.