As a working interpreter, we all know that there are many challenges we face on and off the job. Many workshops discuss how to improve our language skills and customer service skills but what about handling stress and managing time wisely? How about working with other people? There are many additional stressors that come up when working as an independent contractor or even as an employee and we often do not have a place to share these concerns. This workshop will focus on frequent struggles that arise for us, and will also share tips on ways to better manage stressors that are connected to the life of the interpreter.

Educational Objectives:

• By the end of the workshop, participants will identify three specific strategies to increase interpreter availability within our local community.

• By the end of the workshop, participants will list at least three actionable strategies to reduce stigma toward new interpreters entering the field.

• By the end of the workshop, participants will identify one example of bias or negative attitude and demonstrate reframing it by generating two positive alternative statements.

Facilitator: Marilyn Edwards

Marilyn L. Edwards is currently employed at NC Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH), Asheville Regional Center serving as a Hard of Hearing Services Specialist where she consults, provides support, advocacy and offer resources on all aspects of hearing loss.

In addition, Marilyn serves as a Co-Chair of the DSDHH Workforce Engagement Council providing training and education about culture awareness and communication equity in the workplace.

Marilyn is passionate about teaching and tutoring students in American Sign Language (ASL) and has over 25+ years of experience. Marilyn is a Deaf Interpreter (DI) and is actively pursuing National Certification.