Oakton, LSG Sky Chefs celebrate workforce ESL graduates
Oakton Community College's Office of Continuing Education and Workforce Development recently joined LSG Sky Chefs to recognize those that completed on-site English as a second language (ESL) training at LSG's Des Plaines complex, 200 E. Touhy Ave.
"I am so proud of the employees of LSG," says Judy Sloan, who taught the class. "They've improved so much, and they're expressing that they're able to go to the bank, they're able go to the supermarket, they're able to talk to their children more confidently, and they feel happier overall living in the United States and working at LSG."
A husband and wife team originally from India were among those who completed the class. They intend to take additional classes.
"This English class has helped me in my job. I can talk with my supervisors and co-workers with confidence," says Bhavna Soni of Schaumburg, noting the impact it has had on her personal life.
"The class has helped me talk with people whom I don't know. The class has helped me with body language and manners."
"In any aspect of life, communication is at the core, and it is crucial. This class helped me improve my communication skills," says her husband, Devendrakumar Soni. "These English classes enabled me to sharpen my qualities in communication, yet I have a long way to go and learn. I would like to continue classes."
The 13-week ESL course, taught on-site at LSG Sky Chefs' Des Plaines location, trained employees to become more proficient in the English language as it relates to their organizational role in the company. Through interactions in the course, students became more comfortable in speaking in and listening to English in all aspects of their lives.
"This program hits home for me. I come from an immigrant family as well," says John Sarli, LSG equipment and sanitation manager. "Growing up, my first few years here, I did not speak English; all I knew was Italian up until I started school."
Oakton's partnership with LSG is one example of its full range of cost-effective, high-quality training solutions that can be delivered at a variety of locations. Oakton's experienced team of consultants, trainers and program managers develops customized training programs that enhance employee skills and knowledge to drive business results.
"I hear a lot of the stories the students tell me, and it's a lot of the same stories. Their kids are in school learning English, and then they come home and nobody is speaking it. At the end of the day, we've changed somebody's life - not just their work life, but when they go home, we've changed their personal life with their kids."
Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Des Plaines resident Veronica Sanchez has lived in the U.S. for 29 years and has worked at LSG for two-and-a-half years. She praises LSG, noting it was the first opportunity she's had to take an English class.
"It was a great experience. It's the first company I've worked for that really helps the immigrant. My supervisor no longer speaks with me in Spanish, so she pushes me to speak English. I'm happy. Now, I practice my English here. I'm thankful to LSG and Oakton College for their support."
"This partnership with Oakton is exciting," says Cynthia Veremis, LSG regional field human resources director. "This is a win for everyone."
Oakton has added an additional on-site class to meet the demand and is working with sister colleges in 11 other states so that LSG can replicate this program in other parts of the country.
"This is a true reflection of the quality of our customized programs," says Eilish McDonagh-Hermer, senior manager, workforce solutions. "We are excited to continue the relationship with LSG and other business partners in the community."
For information about Oakton Workforce Solutions and LSG, call (847) 635-1447 or email workforcesolutions@oakton.edu.