Why should I become a member of NATI?
This website and discounts on NATI events such as our Annual Regional Conference are two great reasons to become a member.
Probably the best reason to join NATI is that you will become part of a network of people who truly are proud of their profession and who are dedicated to improving themselves and the industry in every way possible. Our motto says it all - Educate, Advocate, Associate.
If you wish to develop as a professional translator or interpreter, if you need certification or training, if you need information or contacts, NATI is an excellent source for you. You can learn about and keep in touch with other local, national and even international professionals for opinions, tips, advice and news. In addition, as a member you can learn from others' experiences or share your own.
By visiting the 'Employment Opportunities" page, you can find employment posting (or request the webmaster post one for your organization). If you are an independent contractor, you can network with other freelancers for client referrals & project partners.
On our events and links pages, you find way to keep abreast of what's happening in the profession via postings on current events, trends in the profession, local and national legislation, and changes relative to thefield of translation and interpretation.
Only members can vote in the election and we all know 'Your Vote Is Your Voice'. Make a choice to have a voice, join NATI now.
What does it cost to be a member and what am I required to do?
Annual membership is $25, and membership runs a year from the month you sign up to the first of that month the following year. You are not required to do anything to become a member other than send in the form and keep your dues current. Your degree of involvement in the organization is up to you.
Do I have to be a working Translator or Interpreter to join?
Membership is open to anyone who supports NATI's mission and goals.
Most of NATI's members are bilingual individuals working in or exploring a career of translator or interpreter. Some NATI members are language service agencies who employ or contract with translators or interpreters for fulfilling client needs. Still others are learning a language and want to find out how they could make use of it in their present career or in future careers.
Oganizational members include governmental and community organizations that serve limited English proficient populations. Hospitals, schools, colleges and other entities. Organizations join to keep their staff and administrators informed on language access issues and resources.
How can I use my language skills? What training do I need?
Become a professional translator and/or interpreter.
Because of the increasing flow of immigrants around the world, virtually every sector of our society needs people with bilingual capability. You name it - medical, education, legal, commercial, construction, industry, benevolence - all are seeking people with bilingual skill sets.
Employment can be found on cruise ships or schools abroad. In the United States there is substancial growth in employment opportunites for qualified interpreters and translators. Generally, a bilingual employee receives higher pay than a monolingual person. Speakers of languages of lesser diffusion, such as the indigenous tribal languages of refugee groups, can often command a higher wage, depending upon the area.
Formal training is often required to work in the legal and medical arenas. A great article to read on professionalization of the field by Holly Mikkelson can be found on her website. The NATI website has many other links to information regarding professional training and certification.
Who can I contact for more information?
Please feel free to contact any of the Board Members with your questions. Their contact information is in the "About Us" section and can be found under the tab "Board of Directors" .
To add more rows, select a row and copy-paste.