GALA Rising Star 2025 - A Localization Professional's Journey in the Age of AI

This article received the 2025 Rising Star Scholarship. Applicants were asked to create an original essay and video answering the question: "How are you, as a future translation and localization professional, preparing to adapt to these significant changes [AI, remote work, workflows, client expectations, etc.] in the industry?" 

When I began making my very first steps as a client-side localization professional, the localization industry had already been navigating one of its most transformative times, influenced by the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence and the residual effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This exposure showed me that, as powerful as AI is, it cannot singlehandedly achieve seamless localization. AI might handle large-scale data, but it lacks the contextual awareness crucial for localization. I recognized early on that my role as a localization professional is not to compete with AI but to complement it, understanding that machines still need human guidance to contextualize language.

This awareness led me to diversify my skill set: while my translation degree provided a solid foundation in industry software and DTP tools, it became clear that a broader range of competencies was essential to adapt. I therefore decided to pursue a second master’s degree covering a wide array of subjects, from coding and algorithms to project management and visual design. My goal wasn’t to become and expert in each of these areas, but to gain a working grasp that would enable me to integrate technical, creative, and strategic elements into localization projects. With this skill set, I’m equipped to approach projects with an understanding of both the underlying technology and the user experience, so that the collaboration between professionals and experts in those areas and the localization team can be smoother.

The pandemic added another layer to this complexity. In response to the broader shifts in the industry, I’ve tailored my project management approach to accommodate a more flexible workforce. Budget constraints driven by both the pandemic and AI advancements have led to a demand for fractional rather than permanent talent, as companies often lack the resources for full-time, in-house specialized teams. To adapt, I learned to work with a hybrid model, collaborating with both in-house and freelance professionals. This approach has given me access to a wider pool of talent while helping control costs. To manage these remote and fractional teams effectively, I learned to customize a project management workflow that automates specific steps across time zones, allowing teams to progress and hand-off projects without the need for constant manual oversight. This hybrid model has enabled me and my team to maintain continuity and efficiency, meeting stakeholders’ demands despite reduced budgets and a decentralized workforce.

Strategic problem-solving is also an essential skill to thrive in this new environment. While AI tools improve efficiency, they also require the right frameworks to function optimally. The project management workflow I customized includes setting up different workflows depending on whether AI is in use or not, implementing checkpoints where humans review. Building these systems has required me to understand the backend of project management tools and how best to incorporate AI while still meeting quality expectations, as certain stages demand unique human expertise to ensure the overall workflow remains effective and smooth.

Another vital strategy in this remote setting has been building stronger collaboration skills. Since COVID-19 normalized remote working, most companies opt for freelance translators than in-house local professionals, which, while advantageous for accessing global talent, can wear down the sense of team unity. To counter this, I work on setting up workshops with translators and freelancers. These workshops not only help maintain quality standards but also strengthens connections, creating a collaborative spirit and shared purpose across the team. Remote collaboration can be challenging, but these strategies help make our virtual team more cohesive and effective.

Risk management has become an even more critical skill to have with AI’s inclusion in localization workflows. While AI improves efficiency, I am cautious about its applications in specific projects. On content suited for AI, I implement quality control checkpoints where human reviewers refine AI-generated translations to align with cultural nuances and client expectations. This selective oversight balances AI’s speed with the human insight necessary for content that resonates with end-users, reducing risks that come with over-reliance on automation.

The last few years have shown how rapidly circumstances can change. My experience as a junior client-side localization project manager has confirmed that adaptability is not only valuable but essential. Balancing AI’s efficiency with human insight, creating flexible workflows, and strengthening team collaboration are strategies that I believe will allow me to thrive in this changing industry.

View past Rising Star contest entries and interviews with the winners.