Over the course of her 35-year career in the language industry, Dolores Rojo Guiñazú has founded a language service provider (LSP), created a podcast, spoken at conferences, and developed expertise in education, marketing, legal, and healthcare translations. Here, she discusses the motivations behind it all and why she’s optimistic about the future of the industry.

Why do you enjoy reading MultiLingual magazine? 

MultiLingual magazine consistently provides in-depth insights into the ever-evolving world of language services. I was an early reader. I remember my college days visiting the local Sworn Association of Translators’ library as a student to read the hard copy that was received every month. I always find the latest trends in technology and artificial intelligence (AI). Its diverse perspectives from thought leaders and friends keep me informed and inspired, helping me refine my skills and adapt to new challenges. What I like the most is the sense of community and shared purpose among language professionals that is reflected in the magazine.

How did you get involved in the translation business?

My journey into the translation business began 35 years ago when I moved from Chaco to Buenos Aires to pursue a college degree in translation at Universidad del Salvador. As the granddaughter of Italian immigrants, I grew up surrounded by the richness of linguistic diversity and the stories that languages carry. This deep connection to my roots sparked my passion for bridging cultures through communication. Leaving home to study in a new city was a leap of faith that required grit, determination, and a belief in the transformative power of language. This experience at 19 years old shaped my career and truly grounded my commitment to helping others navigate linguistic and cultural landscapes. 

Since you entered the translation industry, how has the business landscape changed?

When I entered the translation industry over 35 years ago, the landscape was entirely different from what we see today. At that time, the internet was unheard of, and translation work relied heavily on paper dictionaries, typewriters, and face-to-face interactions with clients. Projects often involved courier services for document delivery and painstaking research, long hours at the library looking up terms, and researching a lot to ensure accuracy.

Imagine that I used to spend entire weekends at the library to look up terms, definitions, and research on the topics I had to translate… 

Over the years, I’ve witnessed the industry evolve dramatically. Technology changed it all. The advent of the internet, computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, and machine translation (MT) revolutionized workflows, making processes faster and more collaborative. Globalization has expanded the demand for language services, while artificial intelligence (AI) and neural MT have introduced both opportunities and challenges. Despite these changes, one constant remains: the value of human expertise in delivering culturally nuanced and accurate translations. Navigating these transformations has been both exciting and rewarding. I enjoy and cherish my ever-evolving profession, and am ready to see what the future holds.

Could you share your experience working with your first client or on your first project?

My first professional experience in the translation industry was with a prominent local law firm, where I was asked to translate an extensive Export Agreement. The project was a true baptism by fire, as it required mastery of complex legal terminology and precise language to meet the high standards of the legal field. I spent countless hours researching terms and ensuring that every clause was translated with utmost accuracy and clarity. As a newcomer, I approached the project with a mix of determination and humility, knowing the importance of delivering a flawless product. The client’s positive feedback and satisfaction with my work were incredibly rewarding and confirmed my decision to pursue my career and continuous education. This job gave me the confidence and commitment to provide exceptional service, no matter the challenge.

Do you believe it’s a good time to enter the translation business?

Absolutely! The world is more connected than ever, and the demand for language services continues to grow, driven by globalization, digital transformation, and the need for cultural and linguistic accuracy across industries. While technology has become a prominent part of the landscape, it has also highlighted the irreplaceable value of human translators in delivering nuanced, context-aware, and culturally sensitive translations. I believe we have a unique chance to embrace innovation, specialize in emerging fields, and carve out a niche we love and enjoy. The industry offers diverse opportunities, and — with the right combination of skills, adaptability, and passion — there’s never been a better time to make a meaningful impact as a language professional.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 10 years?

In the next 10 years, I envision myself as an advocate in the language services industry, using writing and podcasting as platforms to delve into the profound impact of communication, languages, and human resilience. I want to explore and share stories that highlight the role of language in connecting people, fostering understanding, and empowering communities across the globe.

My goal is to contribute to the professional growth of language specialists by mentoring and offering resources that emphasize both the technical skills and the emotional intelligence required for success. Through my podcast, Attitudable, I aim to create a space for conversations about the courage and adaptability that define us as language professionals and as humans.

I also see myself driving innovation in the industry by collaborating on initiatives that prioritize inclusivity, language access, and cultural competence while maintaining the highest standards of quality and ethics. My ultimate purpose is to inspire others to harness the power of language as a tool for change, connection, and values as human professionals.

What predictions do you have for the future of the translation industry?

I predict a rise in demand for translators who can work across multiple languages, genres, and platforms, as businesses seek to connect with ever-more diverse and global audiences. I also believe we’ll see a shift toward more collaboration and innovation in the industry, with translators working more closely with technology experts to fine-tune AI models and ensure ethical use of language tools. Perhaps our businesses will become more interdisciplinary, with professionals needing to combine language proficiency with an understanding of fields such as data security and AI.

It is very hard to know, but aspiring to find a balance in efficiency of technology and the irreplaceable qualities of human judgment, creativity, and cultural awareness will play a key role. All professions will have to evolve. Let’s hope the world will continue demanding clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive communication of human professionals.