For many international engineers working in Japan, the gap between conversational Japanese and true business fluency can feel immense. How do you move from daily chat to confidently participating in a technical meeting or an Agile stand-up?

To understand how specialized training can solve this challenge, we spoke with Kumiko Sugiyama, one of our expert Japanese trainers at Comas.

Meet the Trainer: Kumiko Sugiyama

With over 20 years of experience in Japanese language education, Kumiko has supported a wide range of learners, from university students to seasoned business professionals. In 2024, she earned the new Registered Japanese Language Teacher national qualification, further cementing her expertise. Today, she is a key member of the Comas trainer community, specializing in helping engineers thrive in the Japanese workplace.

Specializing in Business Japanese for the Tech Industry

Drawing on her extensive experience, Kumiko has developed a deep expertise in teaching business Japanese specifically for engineers. Her training goes beyond generic phrases, focusing instead on the practical language needed on the job.

“It’s about empowering them to perform their roles with confidence,” Kumiko explains. “We practice real-world scenarios, from using technical terms like 実装します (we will implement it) and バグを修正します (we will fix the bug) to navigating conversations in an Agile development environment and using the correct level of Keigo (polite language).”

To ensure her training is always relevant, Kumiko is committed to continuous learning. “I’m always reading books on project and product management to stay updated on the industry. Understanding the learner’s context is essential for providing effective support.”

The Comas Difference: A Coaching Approach to Language

When asked why she chose to join Comas, Kumiko’s answer was clear: the company’s philosophy of using a coaching approach in its Japanese sessions.

“I was drawn to the idea of not just teaching one-way, but of partnering with the learner in their growth,” she says. “At Comas, we focus on developing overall communication skills, which includes not just words, but also behavior and conversational flow. This was exactly the educational style I had been searching for.”

A key part of her methodology is creating a safe, supportive atmosphere and a strong, open relationship with the learner.

“People grow the most when they’re in a safe space where they aren’t afraid to make mistakes and be themselves,” Kumiko emphasizes. “That’s when learning can truly become a welcome challenge.”

A Community of Experts Committed to Quality

Kumiko also actively contributes to the Comas trainer community. She initiated the “Trainers’ Meeting,” a collaborative forum where trainers share insights and best practices to ensure every session is of the highest quality. For HR and L&D managers, this commitment to continuous improvement demonstrates a reliable, team-based approach to client success.

Celebrating Success and Embracing New Challenges

For Kumiko, the greatest reward is seeing her learners succeed. She shares the story of a former student who was once hesitant to speak in meetings in Japanese.

“After working together, he built the confidence not only to participate but to lead discussions. He was eventually promoted,” she recalls. “Being able to take on a challenge together with a learner and celebrate their success is the most fulfilling part of my job.”

Looking ahead, Kumiko aims to:

• Deepen her specialization in the engineering field.
• Expand into executive-level Japanese language coaching.
• Explore new sectors like the K-POP and subculture industries.
• Establish and share her original training methods with the world.

A Message for Learners and Their Companies

“Even if you feel anxious about your language or communication skills, the programs at Comas are designed to help you take that first step,” Kumiko says. “Let’s work together to build the foundation you need to achieve your dreams.”

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Ready to empower your team with the skills they need to succeed in Japan?

• Learn more about our Corporate Japanese Training programs here.

If you want to discuss your specific needs and get started today:

• Contact us using our inquiry form