ELL with Manko Windows

Manhattan Tech and Manko Windows Systems, Inc.: Building Stronger Workforces Through Onsite English Language Learning 

Clear communication is essential in manufacturing, having a major impact on safety, quality, and culture. Manko Windows Systems, Inc. understands this concept and has implemented ways to prioritize this communication in their workforce. 

When Manhattan Tech and Manko Windows Systems, Inc.  partnered to offer onsite English Language Learner (ELL) classes, the goal was to improve communication on the floor. The impact has gone further. The program has strengthened workplace safety, increased employee engagement, supported retention, and created new opportunities for advancement. 

The partnership shows what can happen when workforce education meets real workplace needs. 

Listening First: How the Partnership Began 

The idea for onsite ELL instruction started with conversations on the manufacturing floor. 

“Our leadership team spends a lot of time talking with employees,” said Kaitlin McGuire, Human Resources Director at Manko Windows Systems, Inc.. “Through those conversations, they realized there were language barriers that made communication more difficult, especially around quality, feedback, and safety.” 

As Manko Windows Systems, Inc.’s workforce became more diverse, leadership saw English instruction as both support and strategy. It opened the door to a broader talent pool and reinforced the company’s commitment to investing in its people. 

That is when Manko Windows Systems, Inc. reached out to Manhattan Tech. 

Contextualized Learning, Delivered Onsite 

Instead of asking employees to attend classes after work or on their own time, Manhattan Tech brings English instruction directly to Manko Windows Systems, Inc. during the workday. 

“Benefits of hosting onsite removes barriers like transportation, fatigue, and juggling family responsibilities,” McGuire said. “Employees value the accessibility and commitment to their learning.” 

Since launching in Fall 2024, the program has continued to grow. Forty-three employees have participated so far, representing eight departments. Manhattan Tech offers Level 1 and Level 2 English classes onsite during work hours, with sessions held twice a week. Thirteen employees have already completed course passes, with more progressing through the program.  

“It’s a small investment for a long-term gain,” said Brett Jones, Sales Representative at Manko Windows Systems, Inc.. “We’ve seen tangible benefits in communication, engagement, and productivity. 

What Employees Are Saying 

Leadership sees the positive outcomes across the business, and employees feel the impact in their day to day work. 

When asked what the English class has meant to them, one participant answered with a single word.  

Everything. 

Employees shared learning English helps them communicate more easily with supervisors and coworkers, understand expectations, and feel more confident at work. 

“English is important in the workplace,” one employee said. “It helps us do our jobs better and communicate with leaders.” 

Several participants also said improved language skills help them feel safer by better understanding instructions and procedures. Others pointed to simple conversations that make a difference. 

What many native English speakers take for granted as a normal greeting within the workplace, such as being able to say hello, thank you, or see you tomorrow, can be very challenging or may not happen at all between coworkers for a non-native English speaker. Equipping the participants with common communication skills leads to a greater sense of belonging in the workplace which increases morale, drives productivity, and fosters a community-oriented workplace culture. 

Learning Where and When It Works Best 

Employees consistently said having class at work during the workday makes participation possible. 

“Having class at work is better,” one participant shared. “After work, people are tired. We have families and responsibilities. When class is during work, it’s easier to learn.” 

By reducing barriers like transportation, scheduling conflicts, and exhaustion, the onsite model supports consistent participation and long-term success. 

Looking Ahead 

Supervisors and HR staff report broader benefits across the company, including stronger collaboration and improved morale. 

Over time, the program has increased the number of bilingual employees onsite, creating new connections and informal leadership throughout the facility. 

“Early on, we relied on just a few bilingual employees,” McGuire said. “Now many more people can step in and help resolve communication issues.” 

Looking ahead, Manko Windows Systems, Inc. sees the ELL program as a foundation for advancement. 

“English proficiency opens doors,” McGuire said. “We are beginning to see how this can lead to future supervisory roles and long term career growth.” 

Employees echoed that momentum. 

“I started with just a little English,” one participant said. “Now it’s getting better. The class is important to me.” 

A Model for Industry–Education Partnerships 

For Manko Windows Systems, Inc., the partnership reflects its values as a family-owned company committed to its employees. For Manhattan Tech, it demonstrates how flexible, responsive workforce education can strengthen businesses and communities. 

“You don’t know what’s possible until you start the conversation,” McGuire said. “What seemed overwhelming at first became very manageable with Manhattan Tech’s support. They work with us, listen to us, and help tailor the program to what we truly need.” 

This program is not just helping the employees in the classroom. It is improving communication, strengthening culture, and building a more capable workforce across the entire organization. 

Together, Manhattan Tech and Manko Windows Systems, Inc. are proving that when you invest in people, the results show up on the floor, in the culture, and in the future of the workforce. 

If your business could find this partnership like this beneficial, Manhattan Tech is here to explore opportunities for your workforce. 

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