Language Services Live Q&A Ep. 9 - Interpreter Career Connection Program
Bilingual individuals often wonder how they can turn their language skills into a fulfilling profession. While fluency is the first step, becoming a professional medical interpreter requires specialized training, a deep understanding of ethics, and the right practical tools. In a recent episode of "Making Meaning," host Kristen Burk sat down with a panel of experts to explore the journey from bilingual speaker to certified medical interpreter and discuss how training programs create a pathway to success.
The episode featured insights from Karla Reina, Talent Acquisition Supervisor at AMN; Kevin Thakkar, Executive Director of Americans Against Language Barriers (AALB); Genna Linton, Project Manager and Trainer at Tennessee Language Center (TLC) and Pierre Emma Lyron, a Haitian Creole interpreter at AMN and AALB training program graduate. They covered what makes a great medical interpreting training program, the importance of practical experience, and how these programs connect skilled interpreters with career opportunities.
What is a Medical Interpreter Training Program?
A common misconception is that simply speaking two languages is enough to be a medical interpreter. Genna from TLC explained that a formal training program is designed to bridge that gap. These programs provide bilingual individuals with the foundational knowledge needed to work professionally in a healthcare setting.
Key components of a training program include:
- Ethics and Standards of Practice: Learning the professional code of conduct is crucial. This includes understanding impartiality, confidentiality, and the interpreter's precise role.
- Medical Terminology: Gaining familiarity with anatomy, physiology, and common medical terms equips interpreters to handle complex healthcare scenarios accurately.
- Interpreting Techniques: Students learn and practice essential skills like positioning, strategic mediation, and how to manage the flow of communication effectively.
How Training Prepares You for Real-World Scenarios
Training programs are more than just theory; they are a transformative experience. Kevin from AALB emphasized that these programs teach interpreters how to navigate complex and often high-stakes situations. A simple primary care visit can quickly become a life-or-death scenario, and interpreters must be prepared.
Karla added a valuable perspective from her own experience as an interpreter. She noted that a truly effective program doesn't try to prepare you for every possible situation—that would be impossible. Instead, it equips you with a strong ethical foundation and practical tools to handle unpredictable encounters with confidence and integrity. You learn that your role is to be a clear conduit for communication, ensuring both the patient and provider can communicate as if they speak the same language.
A Look Inside Leading Training Programs
The episode highlighted two reputable training programs that partner with AMN through the Interpreter Career Connections program: AALB and TLC
Americans Against Language Barriers (AALB)
Kevin detailed AALB's 60-hour program, which focuses on making sure graduates are ready to enter the field and meet the federal definition of a qualified interpreter. AALB provides continuous support even after graduation, including:
- A free two-year alumni membership with monthly, instructor-led practice sessions.
- Job placement assistance, including resume-building workshops.
- Multiple flexible class schedules, with options on weekends and evenings.
Tennessee Language Center (TLC)
Genna described TLC's comprehensive 70-hour virtual program. A key feature is the extensive time dedicated to simulated practice. Students work with scripts in a safe environment under the guidance of a certified language coach.
- The program offers practice sessions in a wide variety of languages, including Cantonese and Spanish.
- Anatomy and physiology sections are taught by a medical doctor, providing deep, practical knowledge.
- The course is flexible to accommodate working adults, with options for makeup sessions.
From Training Graduate to AMN Interpreter
Pierre, a Haitian Creole interpreter with AMN, shared her personal journey. Before receiving formal training, she interpreted informally for family and friends. The training program opened her eyes to the nuances of professional interpreting, particularly the concepts of impartiality and advocacy. She learned to avoid the common pitfall of "helping" the patient and instead focus on facilitating accurate communication.
Her experience highlights a critical takeaway: training teaches you what you don't know. It provides the structure and standards needed to perform the job professionally and ethically. Pierre also praised the supportive, team-based environment at AMN, where interpreters have access to supervisors and resources, and providers are trained on how to work effectively with an interpreter.
The Difference Between a Certificate and Certification
A point of frequent confusion for new interpreters is the distinction between a training certificate and a national certification. Karla clarified this important difference:
- Training Certificate: This is proof that you have completed a specific training program, like those offered by AALB or TLC. It shows employers that you are a trained professional and is often a prerequisite for the next step.
- National Certification: This is a professional credential awarded by a national body, such as the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI) or the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI).
Kickstart Your Interpreting Career
For bilingual individuals looking to build a career in healthcare communication, a medical interpreter training program is an invaluable investment. It provides the essential skills, ethical grounding, and confidence needed to succeed. Programs like AALB and TLC not only prepare you for the job but also connect you with employers like AMN Healthcare.
To learn more about interpreter careers and find valuable resources, check out our blog and explore our current job openings for language interpreters.