Thanks for featuring this. As an interpreter here in Arizona, one point that seems to consistently be omitted from conversations about the shortage is the issue of pay. Our pay has not kept up with inflation and it is quite difficult to sustain this as your only source of income.

So true. I am Culturally Deaf and it’s so difficult to find one for doctor appointments and my job meetings. We need them… BAD!

Arizona should definitely be trying to bring in interpreters and raising pay. Opening up a bonus for moving to Arizona and having competitive wages would be a great first step to resolving this gap.

Come to the 55+ Communities and teach us. We would love to help out.