Have you recently finished an interpreting program? Are you looking for the next steps to begin your career as an interpreter? New to the field and have questions you need answered?

This forum is specifically meant to help new interpreters like yourself with questions and issues you may have along the path of developing a strong interpreting career. The EIS staff or one of our Certified Interpreters will answer all questions you have. Past questions are archived here.

Does EIS work with the deaf/blind population? If so, will I need a special certification and/or training to work with deaf/blind?"

We asked our most experienced Interpreter working with the Deaf/Blind population to answer, Amy Lynne CI/CT:

This is a great question and also exciting because so many interpreters are afraid to even attempt tactile interpreting with deaf/blind consumers.  I'm not aware of any special certifications available for tactile interpreters however additional training would be a bonus. The Helen Keller National Center on Long Island offers training through seminars and workshops. 

While not an absolute requirement to take on training through the HKNC it would definitely be a great learning experience and look fabulous on a resume! Empire Interpreting also has a mentoring program and could arrange to have an experienced tactile interpreter mentor someone interested in learning more about how to work with the deaf/blind population.