Mixer will assemble language talent

Local nonprofit building pipeline of interpreters for business

As a child, Thamay Paw became her parents’ go-between when they met with doctors, teachers and case workers.

The responsibility was overwhelming at time, but Paw did her best for the Burmese refugee family.

In two weeks, Paw will complete a 40-hour course that is preparing her to perform translation services according to accepted professional and ethical standards. The training, she said Thursday, has given her conficence.

Paw, 29, is one of the 16 students in the Community Interpreter Training program being offered by The Language Access Lab. The local nonprofit helps bilingual individuals develop professional skills and connect with peers, mentors and employers.