AI translation is changing what gets translated, how translators work and where professional expertise creates the most value. So what does the future look like for professional translators as AI becomes part of everyday workflows?
In this episode of Firing On All Syllables, Apertera (formerly Alexa Translations) CEO Gary Kalaci sits down with Joachim Lépine, translator, educator and founder of LION Translation Academy, to explore how AI translation is reshaping the profession, why specialization matters more than ever and what translators can do to stay ahead as the industry evolves.
Drawing on his experience as a professional translator, educator and AI advisor, Joachim shares why the future is increasingly specialized, how translators can use AI to augment rather than replace their expertise, and why understanding the technology is essential even for professionals who choose not to use it. He also explains his idea of becoming "Translator Plus": combining translation expertise with a focus in areas such as law, finance, marketing or AI.
In this episode:
• Why AI translation is making professional judgment more important, not less
• Why specialization is becoming increasingly important for professional translators
• How translators can use AI strategically while maintaining professional expertise
• Why the next generation should think beyond being a translator and become "Translator Plus"
