Cambria, an American-made producer of natural quartz surfaces, celebrated the graduation of eight employees from its English Program this year at a ceremony held Aug. 12 at its slab manufacturing facility in Le Sueur, Minn.
A decade of language instruction
The event marked the 10th anniversary of the program’s first graduating class, bringing together program alumni and the upcoming junior class for refreshments and special recognitions. The company also produced a video featuring the stories of participants. “Watching employees progress from foundational concepts to professional fluency is always inspiring,” said Bridget Prehn, Cambria English Program manager and operational training manager. “We’ve designed our curriculum to challenge participants, but the sheer determination of these graduates is what turns classroom lessons into life-changing communication skills.”
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The English instruction is integrated directly into the company’s operations. Classes take place twice weekly during regular work hours, ensuring employees receive full pay while attending. Instruction is delivered across all divisions, including manufacturing facilities, fabshops, mines, and sales and distribution centers. The program features two full-time English teachers and a full-time curriculum developer.
Expanding opportunities for the workforce
This investment in language skills has tangible results within the organization. Since the initiative began in 2015, more than 500 employees have participated. As of June 2026, the program boasts a 48% internal promotion rate, with 39 graduates stepping directly into higher-level, higher-paying roles. “Mastering a new language is one of the most difficult personal growth challenges an individual can undertake,” said Dave Biron, senior vice president of plant operations. “This graduating class has demonstrated exceptional achievements. These individuals have gained the confidence to make a difference at work and in their communities.”
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For employees, the benefits often extend far beyond the factory floor. Those who have participated report their new skills have transformed their lives, improving their ability to engage with their communities and support their families. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous, requiring students to earn certificates through testing. The initiative began in the spring of 2015 when Cambria CEO Marty Davis found that employees with limited English had few opportunities for advancement beyond entry-level positions. Davis called Brian Scoggin, now chief manufacturing operations officer, and Butch Brey, now vice president, facilities and security, and outlined these non-negotiable requirements: the program would be free, and students would be required to earn their certificates through rigorous testing.
Recognizing that workplace literacy is a community issue as well as a corporate one, Cambria has expanded its educational offerings. After being approached by the director of the local Adult Basic Education (ABE) services, Cambria launched an individually paced GED program at its Le Sueur facility in the fall of 2025. The program is intended to scale to additional Cambria locations in the future.
