March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the achievements, resilience, and leadership of women across all industries. Chester County OIC is using the occasion to highlight the growing influence of women in the workforce — particularly entrepreneurs — while also celebrating the dedicated educators and staff members who help strengthen local communities every day.
Across the United States, women continue to make significant strides in business ownership and economic development. Recent data from the WIPP Institute shows that more than 14 million women-owned businesses now operate nationwide, accounting for 39 percent of all businesses. Over a recent five-year period, these enterprises collectively added 1.4 million jobs to the U.S. economy. Pennsylvania ranks among the top 10 states with the highest number of women-owned businesses, underscoring the important role women play in shaping the regional workforce.
Chester County OIC leaders say these numbers reflect both progress and opportunity. While challenges related to workforce equity remain, the organization sees women entrepreneurs and professionals as powerful drivers of innovation and community growth.
At the same time, the nonprofit is spotlighting the contributions of its own staff members, including Cailey Oehler, whose work supports adult learners across the county. Serving as student support coordinator, in-house professional development specialist, and part-time English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor, Oehler plays a multifaceted role in advancing the organization’s mission.
Fluent in both Spanish and English, she assists students enrolling in GED and ESL programs, while also helping educators enhance their teaching strategies through ongoing training opportunities. Her background includes a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Bowdoin College, TEFL certification, and experience as a medical, legal, and education interpreter — skills that make her a valuable resource for both students and colleagues.
Oehler describes teaching ESL as an opportunity to build meaningful connections with adults from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. She notes that many students are already multilingual and bring unique perspectives into the classroom. For instructors, she says, the experience can be equally enriching, offering the chance to learn from students while supporting their personal and career goals.
Chester County OIC’s ESL program reflects this commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Classes are offered at six locations throughout the county, along with virtual learning options to accommodate different schedules and needs. Tutoring services are also available through a satellite site at the Chester County Library’s main branch in Exton.
To meet growing demand, the program relies on a mix of paid educators and more than 70 volunteers who provide individualized support to adult learners. The organization also offers training for individuals interested in becoming volunteer tutors, helping expand opportunities for residents seeking to improve their English language skills.
As Women’s History Month highlights the broader impact of women in business and education, Chester County OIC leaders say the dedication of staff members like Oehler demonstrates how local efforts can create lasting change. By supporting workforce development, lifelong learning, and community connection, the organization continues to empower individuals — and the region — to thrive.
Learn more about the Chester County OIC and how it has been meeting the needs of economically disadvantaged adults by creating educational, training, and employment opportunities.
