Jordan’s is investing in its employees’ growth, improving communication, and fostering career advancement

Jordan’s Furniture, a prominent furniture retailer in New England with a major distribution center in East Taunton, has made a strategic investment in its workforce through Workforce Training Fund Grant Program funding. This grant has allowed Jordan’s to partner with Bristol Community College to provide ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes on site. By enhancing communication skills among their non-native English-speaking employees, the company has not only improved their quality of life but also strengthened their overall operational efficiency and employee retention. 

Jennifer Ruggiero, Senior Manager of Human Resources at Jordan’s Furniture, describes the program’s impact as a game-changer for both employees and the company. “The ESOL classes have greatly improved our ability to communicate with our employees,” says Ruggiero. “By paying them for the time they spend in class, we’ve created a strong incentive for them to join and stay with us. This has been crucial for retaining talent.” 

The ESOL training focuses on essential skills like reading, writing, and speaking English, and has already shown tangible results. Ruggiero says they have seen how employees who began in entry-level positions have advanced within the company, reflecting the program’s effectiveness in professional development.

“This program, funded by Commonwealth Corporation, provides real-life training that significantly impacts employees’ personal and professional lives,” Rugiero  says. 

Carlos Fernandes, who moved from Cape Verde 11 years ago and has been with Jordan’s for 7 years, shares how the program has changed his daily life. “This is the best job I’ve had in this country. I was juggling two jobs before,” says Fernandes. “The [ESOL] classes have been fantastic—I’m improving every day. I can now communicate more effectively, even at the bank and in my community. I hope more people get this chance to learn.” Carlos’s progress has led to his promotion to Team Leader at Jordan’s.

Wagner Montero, who has been working at Jordan’s for 5 years and also hails from Cape Verde, reflects on his journey: “The ESOL program has been invaluable. It has enhanced my English skills and provided me with opportunities for growth. I had some basic English before, but the classes were like the cherry on top. Being promoted for the first time in my life means a lot. I feel like the company recognizes my value and I want to go for more and more and grow.” 

Brian Faucher, Receiving Manager, notes the program’s broader benefits. “Many of our employees are from Cape Verde and work diligently every day,” he says. “This program has allowed them to secure better positions and improve their language skills. It has been a tremendous asset as we learn more about culture and enhance overall communication. I take pride in their progress and promotions, which would not have been possible without the ESOL classes.” 

Jennifer Ruggiero proudly highlights the overall success. “We are incredibly proud of our employees’ dedication and progress,” she says. “The ESOL program has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career in HR. Recently, we celebrated the graduation of staff who completed the classes, and their achievements have been truly inspiring.”