Regional workforce in need of professional translators as the state’s Spanish-speaking population grows
Green Bay, WI – Professional translators are in demand within the region to meet the needs of the Spanish-speaking population in Northeast Wisconsin. Recognizing this need, UW-Green Bay has launched a new English-to-Spanish Noncredit Certificate program including an American Translators Association (ATA) exam prep boot camp. This program is designed to equip bilingual professionals with the skills to serve their communities and to ensure accuracy and cultural competency in areas like healthcare, education and the legal system.
“As an organization that has historically provided translation services, this newly developed noncredit certificate meets the need of the growing Hispanic population in the areas where a translator can meet a critical need,” said Karin Kirchmeier, CEO, Partners for Community Development, Inc. Partners for Community Development, Inc. is a local organization that provides resources that connect the community with safe and affordable housing, while building life strengthening opportunities. “Providing this option for bilingual professionals creates additional access, inclusivity and understanding in our communities and will positively impact the regional workforce.”
The new certificate comprises three hybrid courses offered over two or three semesters and includes the Exam Prep Boot Camp. Interested individuals will first need to take a language proficiency assessment to enroll; the boot camp is also available as a stand-alone if the primary goal is to become an ATA-certified translator.
The growth of the Hispanic population in Wisconsin has created a demand for trained translators in schools, hospitals and courtrooms to assure equal access, inclusivity and understanding. Most translators work on a freelance basis. The certificate is particularly relevant to professionals working in the following areas:
- Healthcare (doctor, nurse, administrator)
- Education (teacher, counselor, administrator, social worker)
- Legal System (lawyer, legal aid)
- Law Enforcement (police officer, dispatcher)
- Nonprofit Organization Supporting Immigrant or Refugee Communities
Participants are being accepted to begin class in Fall of 2025. Visit the English-to-Spanish Translation Noncredit Certificate website to learn more about the certificate program or contact to Kerry Winkler, program manager, Continuing Professional Education at winklerk@uwgb.edu or 920-465-2508.
About the University of Wisconsin-Green BayThe University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 11,198 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 85,000 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With four campus locations in Northeast Wisconsin, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.
