Jarrod DiZazzo, general manager of supply chain services at Industrial Packaging
October 22, 2019
Manufacturing Insights
Worcester packaging manufacturer offers English language classes
As part of its workforce development initiatives, Worcester shipping product manufacturer Industrial Packaging offers free English as a Second Language classes to all its permanent and temporary employees. Jarrod DiZazzo, the company’s general manager of supply chain services spoke with WBJ after the program.
What are Industrial Packaging's main products?
We have three business segments that make up Industrial Packaging.
- Distribution – which sells heat sensitive films for high-speed applications as well as the packaging machinery using that film, including pallet wrappers, shrink machinery and other packing equipment.
- Parts & service – which services the equipment we sell along with other used equipment and the parts required to maintain them.
- Supply chain services – which manages primary and secondary packaging for food customers.
How many workers do you employ? What types of skills do they need?
We employ about 50 people and also have around 150 temporary workers on any given day over our two shifts. We see a variety of skills, from light warehousing capability to equipment and machine operators.
Roughly, what portion of your workers are not native English speakers?
About 60% of our employee base has English as their second language.
Why do you offer an English as a Second Language program?
Part of Industrial Packaging’s vision is to create a better work experience today than yesterday. With this spirit, we understand a vast majority of our population would like to master the English language but may not have the means, or time to do so. Offering ESL allows us to help the people we employ, and in turn create a positive experience while they are here. These employees are more likely to stay with us and help us achieve our long-term goals.
What has the response been? What have the results been?
We have had more than 40 people enroll in the course. They have been using their new skills in communicating with one another as well as with our English-speaking population. The group looks forward to the classes each week.
Do you believe this makes you stronger as a company?
Being a preferred employer in Central Massachusetts is something we strive for. Our culture is something we work hard at, and ESL classes shows our commitment to our workforce. This will not only enhance our current population but allow us to attract new talent and help develop our company for our growing customer base.
What other unique employee benefits does Industrial Packaging offer?
Since we are laser focused on investing in our people and talk regularly about work experience, we offer a tuition reimbursement plan, do bi-annual company wide celebrations, BBQ’s, and have regular events for our company.
Anything else to add?
Our instructor, Rita DeOliveira and her business, English For Industry, have been a huge help in making our vision possible and helping our people grow both personally and professionally.
This interview was conducted and edited for length and clarity by WBJ Editor Brad Kane.
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