Northampton, MA — Five employees from Nachi-Fujikoshi, a Japanese corporation known for its cutting-edge industrial robots, machining tools and machine components, joined staff of the International Language Institute (ILI) for a recent tour of Adhesive Applications’ facility in Easthampton. The Japanese visitors are living with host families in the area while they improve their English language skills in ILI’s Intensive English Program. They are not only learning English but also visiting local manufacturers to gain a better understanding of the U.S. business environment.
During the tour, the group explored how Adhesive Applications–an industry leader in pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes–works. “This represents an important part of a broader cultural and educational experience for the Japanese visitors who are seeking to immerse themselves in U.S. culture while improving their English language skills at ILI,” said ILI executive director Caroline Gear. “And our partnership with Adhesive Applications presented a great opportunity to allow these students to deepen their understanding of the U.S. workplace through a site visit as part of their overall learning experience.”
For the past three years, Adhesive Applications and ILI have joined forces to provide on-site English language classes for the firm’s employees whose first languages are not English. This customized training is designed to improve communication skills and promote a more inclusive and effective work environment. “Our collaboration with ILI helps ensure that all of our employees can thrive,” said Adhesive Applications President, Petra Schaefer; “ILI’s on-site English language instruction has been instrumental in supporting our team members who are not native English speakers, enabling them to work more confidently and communicate more effectively with their colleagues.” Gear agreed, saying, “As workers improve their English skills, they also enhance their career prospects and strengthen their connections in local communities.”