The Missing Piece in Workforce Development

Workforce development leaders play a foundational role in building job-ready talent pipelines, but many strategies overlook an important group: Adult English learners make up 1 in 10 working-age adults in the U.S., yet just 4% of this talent pool is able to access English instruction in our current workforce system.  

Forward-thinking adult educators, employers, and workforce boards are closing this gap with upskilling with English—an approach that builds English proficiency and career skills simultaneously. This model helps meet employer needs while driving career and economic mobility. Here are three ways to integrate English upskilling into workforce programs.

1. Unlock funding to scale impact.

Even in a tight economy, funding for workforce-aligned English upskilling is a priority. Programs like EnGen qualify for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds when embedded in credential pathways. Using EnGen as a pre-apprenticeship program, like this model in Maine, can unlock other funding sources. What’s more, a growing list of states—including Colorado and Michigan—are also investing directly in English upskilling, offering it free to employers and workforce partners. The investment pays off: Every $1 invested drives a $6 return to local economies.

2. Make the business case to employers.

Employers may not realize that the benefits of English upskilling extend beyond language—until they see how these programs drive business outcomes. A survey of 6,000 workers enrolled in English upskilling programs helps make the case: 

  • 93% saved time at work. 

  • 92% improved their job skills. 

  • 90% improved their digital skills. 

  • 84% said they’re more likely to stay with their employer because English instruction is offered as an employee benefit. 

3. Deliver programs that drive results.

Adult educators and workforce leaders are key to unlocking opportunity. Start by rethinking your current offerings: Do they meet multilingual workers where they are? Understand workers’ skills, credentials, and career goals—and build backwards to create the most direct pathways to jobs in high-demand sectors. You don’t have to work alone: EnGen partners with community colleges, workforce boards, local governments, and employers of all sectors and sizes to build and scale high-impact English upskilling programs. 

EnGen is a comprehensive talent development solution that connects workers with high-demand skills, powering business outcomes and local economies. Learn how EnGen can work for your organization: https://getengen.com/demo 



Sara McElmurry