Expertise. Technology. Law.
Diploma studies at the University of Heidelberg
Graduate translator Tatjana Heckmann
I studied at the renowned Institute for Translation and Interpreting at the University of Heidelberg, which was founded back in 1929 and was the first of its kind in Europe. A master degree in English and Italian not only taught me the theoretical principles of linguistics but also gave me in-depth subject expertise in technical and legal matters.
Another important aspect of my studies was dedicated to translation software such as Trados Studio for terminology and translation work.
I have been working as a technical translator for 25 years and have been able to continuously expand my language and specialist knowledge during this time. Both in everyday life as a translator and in the form of consistent further training. I regularly attend seminars and workshops held by my professional association to consistently enhance my expertise. My focus is on the areas of mechanical and plant engineering. In addition, I read technical books in my working languages to keep up to date with current developments.
Intercultural competence
Language and culture
Mastery of the working languages and knowledge of the cultural, specific characteristics of a country are part of the tools of the trade of all good translators. Only a 360° view for a country and its people, its language and culture, as well as an unwavering interest in the current developments of the countries in which the working languages are spoken, make it possible to understand the context and to translate the source text correctly.
Communication in context
Language and culture are always closely linked: Only if you understand the cultural context can you translate a text flawlessly. I lived and worked abroad for 10 years, including in Vienna, Rome and San Francisco. The knowledge and skills acquired in this way are invaluable to me and are refreshed during regular stays abroad. Of course, this knowledge also flows into my translations.
Trade association membership
I am a full member of the German Federal Association of Interpreters and Translators. A BDÜ membership stands for high quality and professionalism. As a customer, you can be sure that you are working with a professional translator who has not only undergone a rigorous admission process, but is also bound by the current version of the Professional Code of Conduct. Finally, BDÜ members must meet strict admission criteria and agree to abide by the professional and honorary rules. Around 8000 colleagues organized in the BDÜ also offer the possibility of working with qualified translators when needed.
Networking
In addition, I often work with colleagues whom I have known personally for years and whose quality and reliability I can guarantee for.
This gives me the possibility to handle bigger projects and translation assignments where a native speaker is irreplaceable. Plus, more subject areas are available:
- Industry and technology
- Marketing and advertising
- Legal texts and certificates
Current expertise: Technology and language
Webinars
- Electronic signatures in legal contexts
- Machine translation
- SEO Keyword Research
- Understanding technology: Translate technology Mechanical Engineering Part I - IV
- GDPR: Data deletion is mandatory
-
Regex – regular expressions
Part I – IV - Terminology: A holistic approach
- Data protection for functionaries
- Google Search Console
- www - knowledge and tools for web presences
- Contracts and GTC Part 2: Specific contractual clauses
- Contracts and GTC Part 1: Contracts in general
Seminars
- 13th Schmerlenbach Days 2022 - Fit for Future
- Women and Finance 2022
- 12th Schmerlenbach Days 2019 - Workshop for translators
- All-rounder text corpora
- SDL Trados Studio 2019 for advanced users
- SDL Trados Studio 2019
- Machine tools and manufacturing technology
- Translate Better 2018