Being voted a top influencer in the field of language services is perhaps the greatest distinction I have received in the 30+ years I have been in this space. It acknowledges the contributions I made as an interpreter, author, speaker, trainer, mentor, C-level executive, co-founder, and technology advocate.

It also reflects the generosity of my peers, whose achievements have often been greater than mine, and I thank my colleagues for their support.

The language industry is undergoing unprecedented changes. Some of those challenges may seem existential in nature, with some projecting grim scenarios of loom and doom. In such trying times, vision and guidance are needed like never before. And that is what some of the trailblazers featured in this publication have been and continue to be to so many of us. I feel extremely privileged to be placed in that group and to have provided part of that guidance, albeit imperfectly, to colleagues all over the world, through my writings, seminars, and example. It is a tale of ordinary made extraordinary, through wonder, camaraderie, disruption, uncertainties, and the courage to face it all.

I am beyond grateful for that recognition.