At Workplace Languages, we’re fortunate to partner with organizations across the country that are committed to creating safer, more collaborative, and more inclusive workplaces through language training. One of those partners is the L’Oréal manufacturing facility in Kentucky, where employees participate in our live, instructor-led ELS programs designed to build confidence on the job and strengthen communication across teams.
In this Q&A, we spoke with Eileen Washburn, one of our ESL instructors who recently transitioned from the K–12 education system to teaching adult learners in a corporate setting. Her experience offers a firsthand look at what makes workplace language training so impactful: highly motivated learners, immediate real-world application, and a tangible difference in day-to-day communication. She shares what drew her to this work, what makes adult learners unique, and why the classes at L’Oréal have become some of the most meaningful moments of her teaching career.
Why did you leave the K–12 setting?
I absolutely loved my time in K–12 education, but I reached a point where I was ready for new challenges and opportunities to grow. In the school system, much of my energy was spent on procedural requirements, paperwork, and discipline, things that sometimes took focus away from the heart of teaching: helping people learn and feel confident. Transitioning out of K–12 opened the door for me to do what I’m truly passionate about: teaching meaningful, practical language skills in settings where learners are highly motivated and the impact is immediate.
What differences have you seen between academia and teaching adult learners/employees in the workplace?
One of the biggest differences is the purpose behind the learning. In the workplace, adults are learning English to improve communication right now—on the job, with coworkers, and in their daily lives. That creates a powerful level of engagement and urgency. Instead of following a rigid curriculum, I get to tailor every lesson directly to their needs, job tasks, and personal goals. The learning feels real, relevant, and alive. And unlike a traditional classroom where students attend because they have to, workplace learners show up because they genuinely want to grow.
What are some of the challenges of working with adult learners?
The challenge isn’t motivation, it’s time. Most of my learners work long shifts, often 12 hours, and they’re juggling family, responsibilities, and life. Coming to a 1.5–2 hour class and then heading straight to work takes real commitment. But even with these challenges, they show up ready to learn. My role is to make every minute count by keeping lessons practical, energizing, and focused on communication that they can use immediately.
What positive or rewarding experiences have you had teaching in this new setting?
Honestly, teaching at L’Oréal has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. The learners are engaged, polite, appreciative, and eager to grow. They often tell me how much more confident they feel speaking with their coworkers, and hearing those success stories never gets old. I also love the cultural exchange that happens naturally in our classes. I’m teaching them English, but they are teaching me about their backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. It feels like we’re building community while we learn together. Along the way, I’ve made meaningful connections and friendships that make each session truly enjoyable.
Teaching English in the workplace isn’t just about improving language skills — it’s about opening doors, strengthening teams, and building confidence where it matters most. Request a language training quote today!
