Business English for subcontractors in the transition of the steel industry
This course provides practical business English tailored for SMEs in the steel industry value chain - from presenting your company to international clients to handling customer calls and navigating an English-speaking workplace
The steel industry in Norrbotten is undergoing a transformation. English is increasingly becoming part of everyday business activities as the green industrial transition gains momentum. Key documents and technical specifications are now in English, and communication with international partners is becoming routine.
This course provides practical Business English tailored for SMEs in the steel value chain - from presenting your company to international clients to handling customer calls and navigating an English-speaking workplace.
The course is self-paced and delivered online through a digital platform. Study at your convenience, revisit sections as needed and apply what you learn directly to your job.
Is this course right for me?
This course is designed for you who already have a foundation in English and want to enhance your proficiency for workplace use. Before registering consider the following statements:
- I can introduce myself and describe my job in simple English.
- I can understand short, simple texts about familiar topics.
- I can write a short message or email in English, even if it contains some grammatical errors.
- I can follow the main points of a conversation when people speak clearly.
If most of these statements describe you, this course is a good fit. If you are unsure, please contact the course leader for guidance.
Key facts
Target group: Employees at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the steel and metal industry value chain, including technical and production personnel, as well as sales staff, managers, and business owners.
Prerequisites: Basic to intermediate knowledge of English (A1-A2 level according to CEFR) Participants should have access to a computer or tablet with internet connection.
Scope/Duration: Four modules, totaling approximately 20 hours of study, designed to be completed at your own pace.
Price: The course is offered in the framework of the RUFFS project and is free of charge for participating companies.
Location: Online, via a digital platform, with one scheduled in-person group session (venue and date communicated at the start of the course).
Start date: April 30, 2026
Language: English
Number of places: Flexible - the digital format allows participants from different companies to study simultaneously.
Registration: Register further down the page.
Structure
The course is delivered digitally and designed to be work-integrated, so you can study during low-intensity work periods or appropriate breaks without extended absence from work. Modules and sections within them must be completed sequentially.
Course components:
- Short video lessons with clear explanations and examples.
- Interactive exercises to practice vocabulary, phrases, and workplace scenarios.
- Quizzes at the end of each section to check your understanding before moving on.
- Vocabulary lists, phrase guides, and templates for workplace use.
- Group session for real-world speaking practice, role-play and networking. Attendance is strongly encouraged but will not prevent course completion if you opt out.
- Module feedback survey.
Pedagogical approach:
Every module includes video instructions, written materials, and practical tasks. You study at your pace and can repeat any section as needed. The final part of the course is a reflection exercise, and participants receive a certificate upon completion.
Course content
Module 1: English in the Steel Industry Workplace
Introduction to workplace English in the steel industry. Typical scenarios: basic communication and understanding instructions.
Module 2: English for General Business Communication
Presenting your company to international clients. Handling customer queries by phone and email. Participating in virtual meetings. Writing professional correspondence.
Module 3: English for Intercultural Communication in the Workplace
Working effectively in mixed-language teams. Professional networking and meeting protocols. Onboarding and collaborating with English-speaking colleagues.
Module 4: Technical and Safety English
Industry-specific terminology for operations, logistics, and maintenance. Safety communication protocols. Reading and understanding technical documentation and specifications.
Learning outcomes
After completing the course, participants will have relevant and practical Business English skills directly applicable to the steel industry context. They will be able to:
- Deliver company presentations to international clients or business associates in English
- Respond appropriately to customer queries by phone or email using professional English
- Correctly use industry-specific terminology for steel production, logistics and maintenance
- Read and comprehend technical documents and safety instructions in English
- Actively participate in meetings conducted in English, including making enquiries and giving input
- Communicate effectively with English-speaking colleagues in a mixed-language workplace
To receive a certificate, participants must complete all the modules and the final reflection task.
Course development
The course is developed by Bodens Kommun as part of the RUFFS project, with its content quality and pedagogical structure overseen by specialists in English language education.
Course leader: Christine Mawia Musembi, Municipality of Boden
Registration
- Register here
Please select which course you would like to register for.
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