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Established to advance translation and interpreting professions, the American Translators Association was founded in 1959 by Henry Fischbach. Its mission is to promote the recognition of professional translators and interpreters, to foster communication among members, and to establish ethics and competence standards.

There are a number of benefits of joining the American Translators Association, one of which is the opportunity to become an ATA-certified translator.

ATA Translation

The ATA ensures that it fulfills its mission through a system of bylaws and articles that are upheld by a board of directors. ATA translation best practices and resources help to provide members with a higher standard of translation and interpreter practices.

Benefits of Joining the American Translators Association

Members of the American Translators Association enjoy a range of benefits. From learning ATA translation standards to gaining access to diverse events and beyond, the advantages of being an ATA member are varied. Some of the benefits of joining the American Translators Association include:

• Networking – The ATA translation network is made up of more than 5,000 members in over 100 countries. Members of the ATA have endless opportunities to network with like-minded individuals who share mutual professional and developmental goals in translation and interpretation.
• Events for members – With both virtual and in-person events, the American Translators Association provides unique access to translation events such as conferences and webinars. ATA members enjoy free monthly webinars and exclusive discounts on events.
• Certification – Members of the American Translators Association have the opportunity to take a test through the ATA to become an ATA-certified translator.

Becoming an ATA-Certified Translator

An ATA certification is an industry-recognized indicator of overall competence in translation. ATA-certified translators are translators or interpreters who have illustrated that they have the knowledge and skills needed to provide quality translation. ATA-certified translators are required to maintain their certification through ongoing education. To receive certification, a translator must pass a three-hour exam that assesses language and comprehension skills.

Standards are rigorous, and the current pass rate of the certification exam is less than 20%. Of the more than 10,000 American Translators Association members, less than 2,000 are ATA certified. Translators can be certified in specific language pairs and directions.

Certifications from English to another language include:

Certifications into English from another language include:

Translators who are ATA certified have a professional advantage over their counterparts who are not, as an ATA certification shows a deeper understanding of translation and a commitment to translation outside of what’s required from their professional career.

The American Translators Association and Education

Upon completing a degree in translation, such as our M.A. in Translation, translators should begin seeking ways to further develop their translation skills and build their professional network. Becoming a member of the American Translators Association is a key way to enhance your career prospects and professional network.

Be sure to request more information today about how you can prepare for your future with a Kent State translation degree!