About the Program
With low unemployment rates, and visitors returning to the community without COVID-19 restrictions, employers in the International Drive corridor are challenged to address talent shortages. Orange County’s I-Drive Community Redevelopment Act (CRA) Advisory Group that guides the CRA strategy, recommended an investment in English language to support professional growth and retention.
In September 2022, Orange County Government launched EPIC (English Program for workers in the International Drive Corridor) pilot program for onsite English language instruction tailored to the needs of working adults in the I-Drive corridor and taught by educators from UCF Global.
The International Drive CRA Advisory Group invited select employers in the area to extend the opportunity to participate in three cycles of ESOL classes to their employees. Rosen Hotels & Resorts accepted the offer and nearly 60 employees signed up, with some 100 more expressing interest. Rosen Hotels and Resorts provided space for the classes and paid their employees to attend as part of their workday. The classes were held twice a week for two hours.
The pilot program, which continues through June 2023, has a capacity of 75 students so the program has room to grow as more employees show interest, as well as to evolve to continue meeting upskill demands for the area’s workforce.
How To Participate
Employers:
For more information on how employers can participate in the program, contact:
Marthaly Irizarry
Orange County Economic Trade & Tourism Development
Orange County Government Administration Center
201 S. Rosalind Ave., 5th Floor
Orlando, FL 32801
Email: ESOLPilot@ocfl.net
Orange County Residents:
You may contact your employer and have them reach out to the Orange County Economic Trade & Tourism Development at ESOLPilot@ocfl.net, or you can contact:
Jennifer Haddad, Program Director of Engagement
UCF Global
4356 Scorpius Street
Orlando, FL 32816-0130
Email: Jennifer.haddad@ucf.edu
