As part of ProZ.com's 25th anniversary celebration, we are launching a series of blog posts featuring the stories of ProZ.com's longtime members. These posts will highlight their journeys over the years and share how ProZ.com has been privileged to be a part of their success.
We want to take a moment to honor Ellen Buchborn-Klos, one of our very first members, and her incredible journey as a translator.
Ellen joined ProZ.com in its inaugural year and became a paying member shortly after. Her loyalty and dedication to the platform have been unwavering, making her a valued member of our community for over two decades.
Early Beginnings and Career Evolution
Ellen's translation career began in 1981 after she earned her diploma in languages. Initially balancing translation with full-time jobs, Ellen eventually transitioned to freelancing in the 1990s. A company takeover provided the perfect opportunity for her to pursue his passion for languages and global exploration.
"I always wanted to study languages and see the world," Ellen recalls. "Even though I'm not retiring yet, I don't regret my decision to go freelance."
Life as a Freelancer
Throughout her career, Ellen has leveraged ProZ.com's resources to enhance her work. One of the key tools she finds invaluable is the Blue Board, which provides insights into potential clients. She also frequently uses ProZ.com for term research and accessing glossaries.
Adapting to Change
Ellen has witnessed significant changes in the translation industry, including the advent of the Internet. Her diverse career path has included roles as a programmer and international auditor, which allowed her to see the world and gain a broader perspective.
"Translation alone wouldn't have been fulfilling for me," Ellen explains. "My MBA opened more doors, and my varied roles gave me a chance to see the world and work with different people."
Staying Connected with ProZ.com
Despite the challenges, Ellen remains a dedicated ProZ.com member. She values the platform's continuous efforts to support translators, especially through resources like the Blue Board and Trados support.
"As long as I'm working as a translator, I'll be a ProZ.com member," Ellen affirms. "It's still worth the money for me."
Reflecting on Ellen’s journey highlights the essence of ProZ.com’s mission: empowering translators and fostering a supportive community. Here’s to many more years of collaboration and success!
As part of our 25th anniversary celebration, ProZ.com is hosting a special ProZ/TV event where Henry Dotterer, our founder and president, will answer users' questions in an exclusive interview. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the visionary leader who has transformed ProZ.com into a global hub for language experts.
We invite you to participate by submitting your questions in written or video form. Don't miss this chance to be part of an unforgettable event!
This success story is brought out thanks to Tanya Quintieri, Program manager at ProZ.com, who kindly shared the interviews she conducted with our members. Her dedication and effort have been instrumental in highlighting the stories and experiences of our community. Thank you, Tanya!
