Hey everyone,
I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Betty Cohen, the President of OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec), for Episode 74 of the Localization Fireside Chat. We had an incredible conversation about the language industry in Canada, and I wanted to share some highlights with you all.
Who is Betty Cohen?
Betty Cohen is a powerhouse in the translation world. Her journey into the language industry started way back in high school when she was in Morocco, immersed in the French education system. Fast forward to today, she’s the President of OTTIAQ, but she’s worn many hats along the way. From freelancing to working with major firms like the Canadian Securities Institute and PwC, Betty’s career has been nothing short of inspiring.
What is OTTIAQ?
For those unfamiliar, OTTIAQ stands out in Quebec’s professional landscape. Unlike other regions, Quebec has a unique professional system governed by laws specific to the province. OTTIAQ, one of the 46 professional orders in Quebec, is all about setting high standards for translators, terminologists, and interpreters. But there’s more to it than just that – OTTIAQ’s primary mission is public safety. That means ensuring translations are accurate and reliable because, believe it or not, a bad translation can have serious consequences!
Quebec’s Unique Professional System
We dug into what makes Quebec’s system so special. In Quebec, professions are organized under a unique legal framework called the Code des Professions du Québec. This law covers everything from doctors and lawyers to translators and technicians. OTTIAQ falls under what’s known as a “reserved title” order, which means only certified members can use the titles of certified translator, interpreter, or terminologist.
The Importance of Public Safety
One of the most fascinating aspects of our chat was discussing OTTIAQ’s mandate for public safety. Betty explained how a bad translation could lead to significant risks, whether financial, physical, or reputational. That’s why OTTIAQ emphasizes the importance of high standards and continuous education for its members. It’s all about protecting the public by ensuring translations are top-notch.
AI and the Translation Industry
We couldn’t talk about the future of translation without touching on AI. Betty shared her thoughts on how AI is changing the industry. While AI can be a useful tool, it’s not a replacement for human expertise. OTTIAQ is working on educating both its members and the public about the importance of professional translators in an AI-driven world. After all, even the best AI can’t match the nuance and accuracy that a skilled human translator provides.
Relationship with Academia
Another key topic was OTTIAQ’s relationship with academic institutions. Betty highlighted how OTTIAQ collaborates with universities to ensure their programs meet the high standards required for certification. This partnership helps prepare the next generation of translators, ensuring they are well-equipped to enter the profession.
Continuous Education
Speaking of education, we talked about the importance of continuous learning in the translation field. OTTIAQ offers a range of training programs to help members stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies. These programs are open to both members and non-members, reinforcing the idea that ongoing professional development is crucial.
The Economic View of the Language Industry
We also touched on the economic side of things. Betty noted that while the industry has faced challenges, such as clients initially turning to AI solutions, there’s a growing recognition of the value that professional translators bring. Many clients who tried AI-only solutions are coming back to professional translators, realizing the quality and accuracy they provide are irreplaceable.
Final Thoughts
Our conversation wrapped up with a look at what’s next for OTTIAQ. Betty is optimistic about the future and is focused on raising awareness about the importance of professional translation. She’s dedicated to ensuring that OTTIAQ continues to protect public safety while adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of the language industry.
If you’re curious to learn more about OTTIAQ or hear the full conversation with Betty Cohen, be sure to check out Episode 74 of the Localization Fireside Chat. It’s an enlightening discussion that offers a deep dive into the world of translation and the vital role OTTIAQ plays in Quebec.
Until next time,
Robin Ayoub 
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