Starting a new job can be particularly challenging for Kayla Kampman. “In previous positions, communication access was very limited,” she explained, noting that she is deaf.
Research from the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes at the University of Texas at Austin reveals that only 54% of deaf individuals in the U.S. are employed, compared to 70% of hearing individuals.
Kampman now works at a Walmart distribution center in Lancaster, where she has found that communication with her colleagues requires creativity. “Sometimes we don’t understand each other, so we text back and forth or use gestures and body language,” Kampman said.
Many of her coworkers are making an effort to bridge the communication gap. Several have shown an interest in learning American Sign Language (ASL). “Every day, they’ll ask me, ‘What’s the sign for this? What’s the sign for that?’ And I’ll teach them,” Kampman shared.
To further support this effort, Walmart has partnered with Dallas College to offer ASL training for any interested employees at the distribution center. “I think it’s great business,” said Ervin Goad, the general manager of the facility.
This collaboration marks Dallas College’s first ASL training program tailored specifically for a company. “This is the first time we’ve implemented ASL training with a corporate partner,” said Justin Cunningham, associate vice chancellor of innovation and Business Strategy, Workforce, and Advancement.
The initiative aims to help employees like Kampman reach their full potential. “Our mission is to transform lives and communities through higher education, regardless of individual needs or circumstances,” said Dr. Joseph Seabrooks, president of Dallas College’s Cedar Valley Campus.
Walmart reports strong early interest in the ASL classes. Kampman notes that the welcoming environment at her workplace has already improved. “We’re developing friendships and learning from each other, which makes teamwork smoother and more effective,” she said.
