How did you get into and stay in the translation/interpreting business?

I studied Germanic languages (English and German) and began translating while still at university, so I have been in this business from the very beginning. I started interpreting almost without realising it—spontaneously, at work in a company where my colleagues could not communicate with foreign partners without my help.

Please describe a project that you found to be particularly challenging or satisfying.

Later on, I had the opportunity to attend a two-month simultaneous interpreting course in Europe, which I considered my greatest challenge.

Have you found the knowledge you gained through technical translation and interpreting useful in other areas of your life?

Translation and interpreting constantly require broadening one’s horizons and ongoing training in a variety of fields, including through seminars organised by DZTPS. At the very least, it is always interesting!

What does DZTPS membership mean to you?

Membership of the Association of Scientific and Technical Translators has always been a source of pride for me and a confirmation of my belonging to the profession. Some members have not only become valued colleagues but also my closest friends.

How do you cope with rapid changes in technology and the market, and how do you see the future of translation/interpreting?

With somewhat greater difficulty, and on a more modest scale. Time is passing me by a little, but I still find it interesting.

Can you tell us an interesting anecdote about translation or interpreting?

I enjoy taking on new challenges, but my first attempt at simultaneous interpreting was a true baptism of fire. As an established professional consecutive interpreter at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I was once called to interpret at a press conference at the presidential palace. When I arrived, I was denied entry to the hall and told I had to go into the interpreter’s booth instead. Practically pushed inside, I protested that I didn’t know how to use the equipment. A technician quickly assured me he would explain everything. With guests already entering the hall, in desperation I grabbed the technician by the hand and pulled him into the tiny booth with me. “I’ll do the talking,” I told him, “and you can press the buttons as you wish.” Staring in disbelief at the control panel, which looked like the cockpit of an aircraft, I interpreted the speeches while he handled the equipment. Apparently, he did his part well, and I was suddenly launched into a whole new experience, gradually adding simultaneous interpreting to my professional repertoire.