A Passion for Languages Led Nadzeya Rusak to Create an Exciting Career Path with EPAM  

With a background of diverse language experiences and a passion for teaching English to adult learners, Nadzeya Rusak, Director of Language Training at EPAM, and her team integrated AI into EPAM's language programs, creating a path for others to succeed.

An IT Career Journey

After completing her master’s degree, Nadzeya worked in various roles, including teaching, translating for a news agency and freelancing for a Swedish Non-Governmental Organization (NGO). She eventually became the Director of Studies at Belarus's top language school.

As her career progressed, Nadzeya recognized the value of mentorship and learning from others. She also kept a motherly piece of advice in her head: “You should always be able to earn a piece of bread and butter for yourself and your family.” Now, she continues to share this wisdom with her own daughter and the people around her, both at home and at work. This principle of self-reliance and Nadzeya’s varied professional experiences caught the attention of an EPAM Talent Acquisition (TA) specialist 12 years ago. After a long search for a candidate with management experience in foreign languages, they found Nadzeya’s LinkedIn profile and she was the perfect match. Although she was not planning to change jobs, this offer presented an ideal opportunity to grow. Reflecting on the move, Nadzeya says, “Kudos to our TA team — they know what they’re doing,” and emphasizes EPAM as an environment that fosters continuous personal and professional growth for candidates and acclimates them to new technologies.

Recognition and Achievement at EPAM

In 2024, Nadzeya received a personal Gold Award from Chief Learning Officer (CLO) in the Talent Management category. “I am proud, humbled and incredibly grateful to the wonderful EPAM team,” she says. Her colleagues Olga Elisawetskaya received the CLO Silver Award in the Technology category and Ina Novikava got the Strategy Award, highlighting the collaborative success at EPAM and the talent development ecosystem that made this achievement possible. Through a supportive work environment, access to innovative tools and Nadzeya’s dedication to learning, the Language Training team also won a Silver Award from the Brandon Hall Group for Best Learning Team.

Empowering Through Language Training at EPAM

Nadzeya believes a successful corporate language program rests on three pillars: a high-quality learning process, effective management and the alignment with strategic business goals. Throughout her career, she has accumulated experience in these areas and applied them at EPAM to build and develop the award-winning program they have now.

Nadzeya insists the real drivers behind this success are the members of the Language Training team. “These incredible experts and individuals are passionate about their work and have built a learning service that supports all aspects of our people management ecosystem and beyond,” Nadzeya says.

Embracing AI in Language Learning

Nadzeya is enthusiastic about leveraging innovative technology at EPAM to enhance language learning. “We’ve embraced an AI-first approach within our robust, skills-based talent development framework to elevate the learning experience for our employees,” she shares. This allows artificial intelligence to streamline the learning process at both an organizational and individual level.

Implementing AI has transformed how we customize learning recommendations and design personalized learning paths. Nadzeya highlights the use of AI for on-demand learner support and how integrating AI mentors, coupled with assessments and feedback mechanisms, is crucial for effective training.

In the Language Training department, EPAM has tapped into AI’s vast potential through initiatives like AI-assisted proficiency assessments, showcasing our commitment to revolutionizing employee education. Nadzeya often explores AI-driven language learning apps, appreciating how AI makes language learning more accessible and engaging. These applications utilize AI to personalize learning experiences, track user progress with vocabulary, pronunciation and grammar and provide interactive sessions that give the learner real-time feedback. She advises learners to explore different AI tools rather than relying on a single application, using this technology for various tasks such as building glossaries and rehearsing everyday scenarios.

Interacting with chatbots enhances her language proficiency and demonstrates the practical applications of AI in language training. “AI helps learners by clarifying grammatical rules and providing targeted practice to reinforce these rules,” she explains. Additionally, AI proofreads everything and suggests ways to enhance clarity and improve writing style. Overall, Nadzeya encourages language learners to explore AI, highlighting the personal and transformative impact it can have.

Life Beyond Work

Nadzeya’s hobbies play a crucial role in her overall well-being, underscoring the holistic approach to work-life balance that EPAM supports. She finds joy in her relationship with her dog, Donna, saying, “She’s the center of our attention — the most loyal creature, full of love, tenderness, joy and vitality 24/7.” Donna is also a travel companion for Nadzeya, who turns to art, music and history for inspiration and learning.

For the future, Nadzeya reflects on the way tech pushes us to adapt and learn. “It’s time to reinvent ourselves and our work, no matter how daunting it might seem. In any unclear situation, I’ll just keep learning.” Her mindset resonates with EPAM’s dedication to excellence, continuous innovation and growth opportunities to thrive in a supportive and balanced work environment — making EPAM an appealing place for those looking to advance their careers.

If you’re interested in joining the team at EPAM, please view open roles here: www.epam.com/careers