Board Elections 2024 Candidate
Erin Harchuck
Solutions Manager, LanguageLine Solutions USA | United States | LinkedIn
"GALA's mission is meaningful to me because it prioritizes fostering community, promoting collaboration, and valuing people as the most essential part of our industry."
In your view, what are the most important challenges and opportunities facing GALA?
The greatest challenge and opportunity facing GALA in the coming year is directly tied to the rapid advancements in AI and automation. While these technologies have long played a role in our industry, they now contribute even more significantly to improving translation efficiency, enhancing quality, and providing a competitive edge. GALA will serve as a vital resource for tracking industry developments, showcasing how individuals and organizations are leveraging these tools, exploring the evolution of pricing models, and addressing emerging topics like AI governance and sustainability.
Beyond the AI landscape, GALA must continue to foster community and emphasize the human element of our work through events, webinars, networking, and collaboration opportunities. Strengthening this human component is essential to maintaining the value of shared knowledge and experience. Another key challenge will be ensuring that our topics remain engaging, relevant, and forward-thinking. This includes the development of training programs and certifications that meet the ever-evolving demands of the localization industry.
How have you engaged with GALA as a member?
As a GALA member, I have attended and participated in several virtual events, Q&A sessions, read blog posts and other published content, and rely on GALA as a source of information and community.
Besides your work with GALA, how do you engage with our industry (associations, conferences, speaking, publishing, community events, etc.)?
I actively engage with the industry by attending as many conferences as my schedule and budget allow. In addition, I participate in learning sessions across various platforms, such as LinkedIn, Udemy, and Moodle. I stay informed by regularly reading blogs and articles, and listening to podcasts from sources like Slator, AI Minds, and ProZ. I also keep up with the latest developments and activities from key organizations, including ATA, Women in Localization, and the LN.
What superpowers can you bring to board service? Describe previous board experience, leadership training, or strategic leadership you’ve had.
With 15 years in localization, I bring strategic, curious, and adaptive leadership.
Which segment(s) of GALA's membership do you represent? What perspective will you bring?
I represent translation services, technology, and solutions as a female leader. My goal is to bring an open-minded, curious perspective, contributing to GALA’s mission while ensuring all segments of the global language industry are considered. I aim to represent and support as many members as possible.