Breaking Language Barriers: How Language World Empowers AAPI-Owned Businesses
In a world that thrives on diversity and multiculturalism, the ability to communicate effectively across languages is paramount. For many AAPI-owned businesses, language barriers can present significant challenges in navigating legal, regulatory, and public safety matters. However, thanks to Language World and its founder Bill Glasser, these barriers are being dismantled, offering a lifeline of support to businesses across California.
Bill Glasser's journey towards founding Language World is a testament to his passion for language accessibility and multicultural understanding. Born in Madrid, Spain, Glasser later moved to Los Angeles, where he pursued a bachelor's of arts degree at the University of California, Los Angeles, majoring in Political Science and minoring in Spanish. His early career saw him working as an interpreter for an attorney's office, honing his skills in bridging linguistic gaps.
Upon relocating to Sacramento and departing from the Sacramento Bee, Glasser co-founded Spanish World, which has since evolved into Language World. What began as a service primarily catering to Spanish speakers quickly expanded into a multilingual company, becoming a trusted resource for businesses, including prominent institutions like Kaiser Permanente, Dignity Health, and Sutter Medical.
Language World's impact extends beyond corporate realms, especially in light of increased crimes targeting small businesses and the subsequent need for accurate translations and interpretations in crucial conversations with public safety officials. AAPI-owned businesses, often facing language barriers, found solace in Language World's expertise, enabling smoother interactions with legal entities and enhancing their ability to seize new opportunities.
Today, Language World stands as a symbol of support for AAPI business owners seeking to overcome language obstacles. Their services not only facilitate communication with legal and regulatory bodies but also opens doors to untapped opportunities that language barriers might otherwise obscure. “What I could do for them is provide remote interpreting through our online portal–we have something called Pay as you Go,” said Language World Founder Bill Glasser. “That would be a way for a small business to get interpreting services when they need, where they need it, and how they need it.” Glasser's profound belief in the transformative power of language underscores Language World's commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowerment within California's diverse business landscape.
For AAPI business owners whose primary language isn't English, Language World and Bill Glasser offer a vital lifeline. “We would love to be that–as an interpreter to help not only translate but also to explain,” said Glasser. By leveraging their expertise, businesses can break free from linguistic constraints and harness the full potential of their operations. Don't let language barriers limit your business growth – seize the opportunity with Language World today.
If you are an AAPI business owner facing language barriers, reach out to Bill Glasser and Language World today to unlock a world of opportunities for your business's success!
Powering the Future: How Electrify California and the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce Helped Joseph Kwong Charge Ahead with EVEN Recharge
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Joseph Kwong has always been drawn to innovation. He moved to the Bay Area as a teenager and later earned an engineering degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Kwong’s career began in the electronic payment industry, where he developed payment systems. But his passion for sustainability and technology ultimately led him into the electric vehicle (EV) sector.
As one of the early EV adopters, Kwong has been driving electric for over a decade, motivated by his understanding of the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of EVs. However, he identified two key obstacles to widespread EV adoption: the challenge of establishing a profitable business model for EV charging stations and the complex regulatory process required to deploy EV infrastructure.
In 2019, Kwong founded EVEN Recharge to simplify EV charging and make it a viable business venture, demonstrating that EV charging can offer a solid return on investment. His goal was to make EV charging more accessible and easier to deploy. However, just as his business was beginning to gain traction, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted operations. By 2021, EVEN Recharge was back on track, and Joseph successfully launched an off-grid, solar-powered EV charging station, a renewable energy hub equipped with solar panels and backup batteries in Bakersfield and other cities within California.
While researching EV news online in 2023, Joseph discovered the Electrify California program and the Sacramento MBDA Business Center, operated by the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce (CalAsian Chamber). Electrify California offers an incubator track focused on advancing clean energy initiatives. Joseph applied to join the cohort, which proved transformative for his business. Through the program, EVEN Recharge received one-on-one consulting on capital readiness and clean energy adoption. Joseph gained critical connections, expert guidance, and exposure to an invaluable network of industry leaders, advisors, and clients.
With the resources and support from the CalAsian Chamber, Joseph was able to secure $500,000 in capital, which enabled EVEN Recharge to install a mobile EV charging hub in Del Paso Heights, Sacramento, directly contributing to the city’s clean energy goals. The Electrify California program provided tailored training and connected Joseph with local manufacturer Leadman in Santa Clara to scale production. The Sacramento MBDA Business Center team also assisted with certifications and resources for government projects, broadening EVEN Recharge’s access to additional opportunities.
Today, EVEN Recharge is focused on expanding EV charging use cases in commercial spaces, the security field, and off-road locations. The support of the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce and the Sacramento MBDA Business Center has empowered Joseph’s vision for a more electrified future. Joseph Kwong’s journey is a powerful example of the impact of mentorship, networking, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future. With EVEN Recharge, he’s not just powering vehicles, he’s powering change.
If you're interested in learning more about the no-cost Electrify California program, visit calasiancc.org/electrify-california.
Partner Spotlight: Metrix Learning
About Metrix Learning
Metrix Learning stands at the forefront of online education solutions, dedicated to transforming the public workforce landscape. With a mission to cultivate purposeful careers and maximize returns on workforce investments, Metrix Learning tailors its offerings to meet the diverse needs of today’s job seekers, including the unemployed, underemployed, and those looking to pivot their careers.
Metrix Learning’s roots trace back to NY Wired for Education, where it emerged as a pioneering force during the 2008 recession. By introducing a web-based learning management system in collaboration with New York-based Workforce Development Boards, Metrix Learning made an immediate impact on workforce prosperity. Today, the company’s reach extends to nearly half of the United States, with over 130 Workforce Investment Boards or government-funded partners, 20 states reporting significant drops in unemployment rates, and more than 700,000 learners benefiting from its programs.
Founder and CEO Brian Lee, inspired by his father’s dedication to public service with the New York State Department of Labor, has continued the family legacy by combining technology, education, and business to empower workers. Under Lee’s leadership, Metrix Learning has become the go-to solution for workforce development across the nation.
A Commitment to Workforce Solutions
From its inception in 2008, Metrix Learning has been committed to providing solutions grounded in labor market statistics and geographic data. Its flagship initiative, SkillUp America, offers a user-friendly, self-paced platform that aligns with the strategic goals of local communities. Through SkillUp America, learners can enrich their skill sets in target industries, align their career paths with market demands, and demonstrate tangible performance outcomes.
Empowering Public Sector Partners
Metrix Learning offers public sector partners the tools to develop customized training plans based on local needs and leverage pre-constructed career pathways to meet demand. Their online portal serves as a virtual extension of resources, connecting directly with communities and complementing existing job seeking and employer services. By aligning with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and recognizing the importance of a skilled talent pipeline, Metrix Learning ensures that communities are equipped to meet the challenges of today’s labor market.
Driving Economic Prosperity
Metrix Learning’s impact extends beyond individual learners; it plays a vital role in strengthening the economic prosperity of local communities. Through SkillUp America, Metrix Learning partners with community-based organizations (CBOs) to expand access to upskilling resources, fostering collaboration between CBOs and community leaders. This initiative not only enhances training opportunities for local partners and their staff but also expands CBO networks to compound the benefits of upskilling.
The Future of Workforce Development
As the workforce continues to evolve, Metrix Learning remains committed to adapting its solutions to meet emerging challenges. From addressing shifting workplace cultures to overcoming skilled worker shortages, Metrix Learning provides the tools and resources needed to build resilient, thriving communities. With its data-driven approach and innovative solutions, Metrix Learning is poised to continue leading the way in workforce development, ensuring that every community has the opportunity to succeed in the modern economy.
Conclusion
Metrix Learning is more than an education provider; it’s a catalyst for change in workforce development. By offering customized, data-driven solutions that align with the needs of local communities, Metrix Learning empowers individuals, businesses, and public sector partners to thrive in an ever-changing job market. As the company continues to innovate and expand its reach, Metrix Learning is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of workforce education across the United States.
Unlock your potential with Metrix Learning, a leader in workforce development and education. Through our partnership with Metrix Learning, you can access discounted, customized training solutions that align with your community’s needs. Visit our website to learn more and take the first step towards empowering your business and community.