I’ve worked as a translator and interpreter between English, Russian, Polish, Belarusian, and Ukrainian for over 22 years. I’ve lived in multiple countries and multiple U.S. states, which has helped me understand cultural diversity and shaped me as a professional and a person. For the past three years, I’ve served on the Leadership Council of ATA’s Language Technology Division. I believe in progress and strive to have a forward-thinking approach, welcoming new challenges and learning to navigate them.
I’ve worked across multiple sectors, including aerospace, government, health care, and the courts. My experience with high-profile organizations such as NASA and the Department of Defense has given me a comprehensive understanding of the varied landscape our profession operates in and cemented my ability to handle complex, high-stakes projects.
I’ve been at the forefront of technological integration, overseeing office-wide implementations of new CAT tools and staff training in the private and public sectors. I’ve also been involved in researching and experimenting with generative AI to gain more insights into how we can utilize AI’s potential while preserving the irreplaceable value of human translators and interpreters.
If elected, I plan to focus on several areas:
- Professional Development and Member Care: I’ll work on expanding training opportunities in areas that complement AI capabilities, such as post-editing, cultural consulting, and specialized subject-matter expertise. I feel there is a strong need to enhance existing mentorship programs and develop new ones to support all members of ATA, especially those who may be struggling in their day-to-day operations, feeling threatened or intimidated by technology. This mission is critical and will be my key objective.
- AI Integration, Education, and Ethics: We need to maximize outreach to educate members about AI tools and how to incorporate them into workflows to enhance productivity while maintaining quality. We must push for strict guidelines on the ethical use of AI to ensure the highest standards of professionalism.
- Certification Standards: As a certified court interpreter and U.S. Department of State-certified translator, I understand the importance of maintaining high professional standards. I’ll work to ensure that ATA continues to be a respected body, adapting our certification processes to reflect the evolving nature of our profession in the age of AI.
- Industry Collaboration and Advocacy: I pledge to continue strengthening partnerships with T&I associations domestically and internationally to share best practices and create a unified approach to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, including greater engagement with policymakers and industry leaders so that the role of human translators and interpreters is recognized and valued.
- Recruitment and Member Retention: As an ATA member since 2013, I’m keenly aware that our ranks have been dwindling. Some experienced professionals have left (or are thinking of leaving) the organization, while younger ones have their doubts about its relevancy. I recognize that. Whether you’re an existing member, a former member, or are unaffiliated, I want to hear from you. Working together, we can build and reshape ATA to be a better and stronger community.