By
Allegra B. Elson, Director of Training and Development, Vibrant Pittsburgh, allegrae@vibrantpittsburgh.org, and
Nicole Mannino Johnson, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Literacy Pittsburgh, njohnson@literacypittsburgh.org
Expanding access to global talent is not just a hiring strategy; it is a competitive advantage. In collaboration with the City of Pittsburgh’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA), Vibrant Pittsburgh hosts periodic webinars with local partners, including Literacy Pittsburgh, exploring practical ways employers can attract, retain, elevate, and support immigrant and refugee employees. The April 8, 2025, webinar addressed practical strategies for employers to unlock global talent. By adopting inclusive practices and providing appropriate resources, businesses can cultivate a more engaged workforce.
Supporting Workplace Language Skills Development
Increasing the language proficiency of immigrant employees is a high-impact focus area. Offering workplace English programs, specifically industry or job-specific trainings, helps employees improve their communication skills and allows them to interact confidently with colleagues and customers. Upskilling initiatives, such as digital literacy courses and professional development workshops, further enhance job performance and employee satisfaction.
Cultural Competency & Inclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
Creating an inclusive workplace does not require a complete overhaul; intentional, ongoing efforts can lead to meaningful improvements. Employers can enhance workplace inclusion by adopting clear communication strategies and ensuring workplace materials are accessible to all employees.
Comprehensive cultural competency training for employers and employees is critical in fostering an inclusive environment. This training should go beyond basic awareness and equip participants with the skills to navigate cultural differences and practice inclusive communication. For managers, cultural competency training can provide strategies for fair and supportive leadership, conflict resolution, and fostering psychological safety. For employees, it can strengthen cross-cultural collaboration and improve workplace relationships. By integrating cultural competency into ongoing professional development, organizations can build a workplace where all employees feel valued and supported.
Employer Success Stories: Strategies That Work
Many businesses are experiencing the advantages of inclusive hiring and retention strategies. Employers who invest in workplace language training, cultural competency, and upskilling see higher engagement, retention, and stronger workplace relationships. Real-world success stories demonstrate how thoughtful approaches can lead to long-term workforce stability and growth. For example, employers in the hospitality industry have experienced numerous benefits by adding immigrants and refugees to their workforce. There is stronger teamwork as different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving have led to more creative solutions. Compared to industry norms, there tend to be higher retention rates among immigrant employees, which reduces hiring and training costs. Multicultural teams are more culturally aware and adaptable, leading to improved customer interactions. While many hospitality businesses struggle to fill roles, an added focus on hiring immigrants and refugees gives employers access to another reliable talent pool.
Taking the Next Steps
The insights provided serve as a guide for employers who aim to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces. By focusing on language upskilling, cultural competency, and skill development, organizations can fully leverage the strengths of their diverse workforce. This approach leads to a stronger, more connected, and more successful business environment.
To learn more about how you could implement these strategies, please review the latest Vibrant Pittsburgh webinar from April 8, 2025, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ddl2axka4XE
Panelists:
Leslie Tuttle Ditrani, Attorney, Pathway for Immigrant Workers
Pathway for Immigrant Workers (PIW) is a Cambridge-based nonprofit serving the Greater Boston area and beyond. PIW assists low-wage workers already here in the U.S. with work authorization in employment-sponsored lawful permanent residence applications.
Burke Flynn, Assistant General Manager, AC Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown
AC Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown reflects smart, timeless European design that guests love. AC Hotel leads you right into the heart of this exciting city.
Nicole Mannino Johnson, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Literacy Pittsburgh
Literacy Pittsburgh offers free educational programs for adults and families in Allegheny County and Beaver County.
John McGinley, Wilson-McGinley
Based in Pittsburgh’s historic Lawrenceville neighborhood, Wilson-McGinley operates an award-winning beer wholesale distribution operation that spans 12 counties and represents over 150 brands.
Brandi B. Miller, Executive Director, Literacy Council of Southwestern PA
The mission of the Literacy Council of Southwestern PA (LCSWPA) is to empower adults and families with literacy skills that enable them to lead successful, fulfilled lives as members of our communities.
Ashley Senger, Owner, Language Collaborations
Language Collaborations provides on-site, custom workforce English training programs to businesses in Erie and Pittsburgh.
Tadd Wamester, Director, Partnerships, EnGen
EnGen delivers workforce-aligned, on-demand English instruction that connects learners with skills, career pathways, and employment in high-demand industries.
This article is part seven of a series by Literacy Pittsburgh with tips on hiring and retaining immigrant talent.
References
Cultural Competence in the Workplace: What Leaders Need to Know
How English Classes for Immigrants Boost Workforce Development
New Americans in Pittsburgh: The Economic Contributions of Immigrants in the City
Why Learning and Development Is Now a Competitive Differentiator
Frequently Requested Statistics on Immigrants and Immigration in the United States
Vibrant Pittsburgh is a premier economic development membership organization dedicated to supporting the growth and economic competitiveness of the Greater Pittsburgh region. As the central resource, spokesperson, and convener on workplace inclusion, Vibrant Pittsburgh partners with area employers to position the region and their organizations as welcoming, forward-thinking places for people of all backgrounds. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and advocacy, Vibrant Pittsburgh accelerates progress, fostering a vibrant and competitive future for the region. Learn more at www.vibrantpittsburgh.org
Literacy Pittsburgh (formerly Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council) helps create better lives through learning. Recognized as a national leader in adult and family literacy, Literacy Pittsburgh is the largest provider of adult basic education in Allegheny and Beaver Counties. Last year, Literacy Pittsburgh helped more than 4,000 individuals acquire the skills needed to reach their fullest potential in life and participate productively in their communities. Literacy Pittsburgh provides free, personalized instruction in workforce readiness, high school diploma test preparation, digital literacy, English language learning, math, reading, and family literacy through one-to-one and small class instruction. Founded in 1982, it serves local adults through numerous neighborhood locations and its Downtown Pittsburgh Learning Center.
