STCC Workforce Development to offer free ESL Hospitality & Customer Service courses

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Workforce Development at Springfield Technical Community College will offer English as a Second Language (ESL) Hospitality & Customer Service courses.

This program, funded by the Community Mitigation Fund, will be free for those who enroll, providing a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to improve their English proficiency and customer service skills in the hospitality industry.

The 16-week courses, totaling 128 hours, will be available at different skill levels:

  • Beginner: Monday through Thursday, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. (March 3 - June 25)
  • Intermediate: Fridays, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (March 7 - June 20)
  • Advanced: Saturdays, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (March 15 - June 28)

Designed to support individuals working in customer-facing roles, this program focuses on enhancing language skills, communication abilities and cultural awareness necessary for delivering exceptional service in English-speaking environments.

Participants will benefit from:

  • Language Proficiency Development: Focus on hospitality-related speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
  • Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: Training on cultural norms, etiquette and inclusive interactions.
  • Customer Service Techniques: Practical instruction in communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution.
  • Role-Play and Simulation Exercises: Hands-on scenarios to practice real-world hospitality interactions.
  • Certificate of Completion: Participants will receive a certificate demonstrating their proficiency in hospitality-related English and customer service skills.

In addition, participants will be taught industry-specific communication skills and how to adapt to different service settings. The courses will feature guest interaction scenarios and industry-specific documentation and procedures.

"We are thrilled to offer this program, which will help individuals build the language and customer service skills necessary to succeed in the hospitality industry," said Gladys Franco, Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development at STCC. "This initiative not only supports personal growth but also strengthens the local workforce by preparing individuals for meaningful career opportunities."

This free program is a unique opportunity for those seeking to advance their careers in the hospitality industry by improving their language and service skills. For more information or to register, visit stcc.edu/wdc, email workforcetraining@stcc.edu or call (413) 755-4225.