SeproTec Translator of the Month: August 2022

We’re pleased to announce the winner of the August 2022 edition of our “Translator of the Month” action.

Translators form one of the most important pillars of the company. For that reason, this initiative is our way of saying thank you and recognizing the professionalism of their everyday work.

We’d like to introduce Chiaki Pidruchney, who has almost 30 years of experience as a translator, a profession that she pursues with great passion. Chiaki is one of our most versatile translators, translating patents, marketing content, legal and more. But, without a doubt, the translations that she enjoys the most are those in the field of health and medical care.

Hi Chiaki,

First, thank you very much for your time and for your great work with us.

You’ve been working as a translator since 1993. That’s a long time! How did you start in the field?

I’ve always been interested in languages in general (especially English!) since I was very young. As a child, my favourite pastimes included reading, writing and watching foreign movies with Japanese subtitles. 

After immigrating from Tokyo, Japan to Canada in 1986, I worked for a company whose core business was to promote Canadian companies to the Japanese market. That’s how I got into the world of translation (and occasionally interpreting). Subsequently, I became a full-time freelance translator in 1993. Ever since then, I’ve been completely hooked on translation – it’s certainly my passion! 

What’s your favourite thing about being a translator?

Hmm…it’s hard to pick one! Besides super-flexible work hours, I enjoy serving as a bridge (communicator) between people with different cultures and backgrounds. That’s very exciting and satisfying.

You’re very versatile as a translator! You translate patents, marketing and IT content and even legal texts. What field of specialisation do you enjoy the most? Why?

For the past 10 years or so, I’ve done quite a lot of medical translations. Although I still receive work in a broad range of fields, I enjoy the field of health and medical care most. Simply because it’s very interesting!

What are the most common translation problems of being bilingual in both Japanese and English?

The structural difference between the languages, as well as cultural differences. Being born and growing up in Japan and living in Canada for over 30 years, I’ve got to know both cultures very well. This knowledge certainly helps me with my translation.

How do you enjoy spending your free time?

When I have free time, I enjoy playing the piano, as well as some outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking. There are some beautiful ocean-front bike routes and amazing hiking trails here in Vancouver. All of which are great ways to unwind and relax after hard work! 😊

Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us and congratulations on winning the award.  You certainly deserve it.