Systems recently launched its first “Earn and Learn” partnership program with Kirkwood Community College this past fall. The program is designed to support non-native English-speaking employees by strengthening workplace language skills while creating opportunities for professional growth and future leadership roles.
The program is open to all employees, and supervisors are encouraged to support staff who may benefit from participating. Classes meet twice each week for two-hour sessions over the course of 12 weeks, requiring a strong commitment from participants. While nine staff members enrolled in the pilot session, the program can accommodate up to 15 participants.
Working closely with the Human Resources team, Kirkwood developed a customized curriculum tailored specifically to SUI’s workplace environment. Topics include understanding SUI acronyms, improving documentation skills, and exploring broader professional development areas such as workplace professionalism and conflict resolution.
The pilot program was considered a success from all perspectives. Kirkwood let us know that the Systems class made the most advances in their goals than any other organizations. Due to this, the agency is hopeful about launching another session in 2026.
