Interpreters, translators, and students. Are you prepared to take charge in your profession? Join us for a day of instruction featuring well-known professionals from across the different TI sectors, network with colleagues, and make new friends in the industry. This conference has the following Continuing Education Unit approvals: 6 CIMCE (CA court) instructor-led units and 6 CEAP (CCHI) CE hours and is pending approval for IMIA (NBCMI) CE units. Parking is not included but a coffee & pastry station, lunch, and snacks will be provided for all attendees.
This conference will feature the following lectures and an expert panel lunch:
1. Gustavo Negrete
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
"Understanding Consent in the Medical and Legal: More than Meets the Eye"
Abstract:
As interpreters, what are we really taught about consent? Not much! Especially as it is not part of the usual curriculum nor a knowledge requirement for certification. Some healthcare interpreters know of consent and others, through work experience, gain basic knowledge of what to expect when a provider is attempting to ensure informed consent, or as may be the case for court interpreters, when an attorney is questioning if informed consent was indeed obtained. It is the intention of this presentation to expand the attendees’ knowledge on the subject of consent. Why? Because the better we understand consent, the more we realize that there is more than meets the eye.
2. Aimee Benavides
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture: "Transcription and Translation - Are you ready to be an expert witness?"
Abstract:
Transcription and translation are an important tool necessary to submit evidence that is not obtained or recorded in English. It can be a daunting task to take on for the first time. This session is designed to review how interpreters should approach T&T that is requested for evidentiary purposes. Interpreters need to be aware of what to expect if they may be called as an expert witness. This session will also point participants to important resources that will help them define their scope of work and record keeping related to terminology - especially when meaning is ambiguous.
3. Christopher Mellinger, PhD (in-person) - Aimee Benavides (in-person)
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture: "International Standards and Legal Interpreting - understanding ISO and ASTM standards"
Abstract:
This session will provide attendees with a broader understanding of the world of international standards and their intersection with legal interpreting. This includes understanding who drafts the standards and how they are approved, and the role interpreters can play in this process. Once standards are drafted, interpreters can make use of them, and this session will cover many ways in which international standards can be used by both freelancers and staff interpreters alike to improve working conditions, demonstrate professionalism, and bolster the efforts of professional organizations. Attendees interested in advocacy will gain a new set of tools to use in their important work as well.
4. Lucila Ritterstein
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture / Workshop: "Hey Interpreters, Can We Govern Ourselves?"
Abstract:
A lecture that seeks to explore ourselves in relation to our profession from several angles including, but not limited to, our personality through the 5-Score Personality Test, communications styles based on The Culture Map by Erin Meyer. We will explore the dynamics of hierarchical vs egalitarian organizations, generational communication styles, prescriptive vs descriptive linguistics, labor vs profession, and how all these factors may interfere in our ability to see eye to eye to work together as one functioning interdisciplinary profession. The main goal will be to help us define our vision forward, demonstrating that we can govern ourselves, personally and as a group, following a Profession First, Broker/Agent Structure.
5. Ricardo Dominguez
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture: "Thriving Under Rules of Procedure: Best Practices During Aggressive Medical & Legal Assignments"
Abstract:
In this session, we will explore how interpreters can professionally manage highly objected and aggressive examination of witnesses during court hearings, trial, depositions and insurance claim medical evaluations. By examining the rules of procedure and application of interpretation standards, participants will regain practical strategies to maintain control, focus and accuracy. The workshop will cover real-time cognitive and emotional regulation techniques, as well as long-term methods for building resilience and character. Attendees will engage in interactive exercises and case studies to reinforce knowledge and skills, ensuring they are prepared to handle even the most challenging assignments.
6. Ricardo Aviles
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture / Workshop: "Interpreting Traumatic Human Trafficking and Child Protective Services' Interventions "
Abstract:
This interactive lecture we will focus on the roll and self-care of the interpreter during and after highly stressful and often traumatic human trafficking and Child Protection Service interventions and removals, where victims, families, and even the perpetrators may be involved. The objective will be to explore multiple personal safeguards where physical, emotional, and cultural background may pose a challenge to maintain composure and interpret for children, families, government officials while following the code of ethics, rules and regulations.
7. Katerina Borghi
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture / Workshop: "Advanced Notetaking in Consecutive Interpreting"
Abstract: Whether you are a new or seasoned interpreter, polished consecutive interpreting skills can set you apart and give you greater professional opportunities. In this seminar we will discuss the general principles of notetaking in consecutive including what, when and how to note down ideas. We’ll get into the nitty-gritty of using abbreviations and symbols as well as put these concepts to the test with some practice material. Don’t miss the chance to come learn something new or polish skills you already have in order to feel more confident at your next assignment.
Please bring: A steno pad (or note pad of your choice), a pen to take notes, and recording device (phone, tablet, or another device).
8. David Higbee
Lecture / Workshop: “The Dangers and Opportunities of AI in Legal and Medical Interpretation and Translation”
Abstract:
In this comprehensive workshop, we’ll examine both the pitfalls and potential of AI in the legal/medical language field. Participants will learn about the structural and design principles behind AI, as well as its limitations in handling dialects, emotions, and non-standard language. We’ll discuss AI’s structural constraints, such as its reliance on statistical probability and lack of sensory inputs. Additionally, we’ll explore productive ways interpreters and translators can leverage AI tools to enhance efficiency and support language maintenance, emphasizing responsible use in legal contexts.
9. Daniel Tamayo
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture / Workshop: "Flow and Precision: Advanced Practice for Improved Simultaneous Interpretation"
Abstract:
Achieving smooth and accurate renditions is crucial for effective interpreting, yet it often poses challenges. This interactive workshop will address common obstacles in simultaneous interpretation, offering practical solutions and live practice to refine skills. Additionally, participants will engage in sight translation exercises, exploring how these two modalities complement each other. The session focuses on producing renditions that are not only accurate, but also flow naturally and sound pleasant to listeners. Attendees will work with technical texts, to tackle specific challenges and enhance their overall interpreting performance.
10. Javier H. Morrone
In person – Language: Spanish – 1.5 hours
Lecture: “Business Interpretation, A Hateful Workshop”
Abstract:
In this highly interactive and fun workshop, we will practice simultaneous business interpretation to flex our brains and refresh our, often neglected, business vocabulary. We will listen to English renditions, interpret them into Spanish, make mistakes, cry together, curse at each other, remember it all back, try to recover our dignity, and move on!! We will cover vocabulary pertinent to: Medical billing; Banking; Economics; Stock Exchange; International Trade; Business Structure; Business Loans; Bankruptcy; Real Estate; Housing Rentals; Renter’s Insurance; and some Testamentary, just in case we get bored.
11. Greg Birchfield
In person – Language Neutral – 1.5 hours
Lecture: “Hazardous Materials/Drug Labs; The Ever-Evolving Vocabulary”
Abstract:
A step-by-step description of drug labs, drug/narcotics manufacturing and hazardous materials that are a public concern, cause accidents and human tragedies. This expert lecture will review the latest developments in the manufacturing and storage of hazardous materials, as well as an exploration of the current trends in the production, distribution and use of illegal substances. Be ready to create your own personal glossary of terms and to learn the latest vocabulary pertinent to the medical and legal fields.