No, translators work with written documents, while interpreters work with oral messages. However, both translators and interpreters strive to conserve as much of the original meaning, tone, intent, and register as possible.

Interpreters facilitate spoken communication between people who speak different languages by converting speech or sign language into the nearest possible equivalent into the target language. There are different sub specializations such as medical, judicial, community, etc.

Translators convert text from one language into the nearest possible equivalent into the target language. Other language professionals may be involved in document preparation: Content Editors polish translators and correct core issues optimizing readability; Localizers customize messages to specific geo-cultural audiences; Proofreaders help ensure the text is free of ortho typographical errors, to name a few. 

A professional language provider who has been accredited by a certifying body (such as NBCMI, CCHI, Tennessee Supreme Court, ATA), and who has demonstrated competency in the required skills and training by taking exams. They must adhere to strict Codes of Ethics and follow Standards of Practice.  

Possibly, but it requires a lot of work and study. Most bilingual people simply do not have the innate abilities and meticulousness to be a good translator or interpreter. Either way, acquiring a level of fluency and general knowledge of the culture of your working languages will require years of effort and immersion. Not everyone who has two hands will be a good pianist.

Although it has greatly improved in recent years, automatic or machine translation simply cannot render a cultural equivalent. Results produced by software and neural networks should always be edited or proofread by a human brain in order to ensure the information provided is sound, consistent, error-free, and culturally appropriate for the intended audience.

Often referred to as CAT or Computer-Assisted Translation, these tools are computer programs that store previously translated sentences, words or phrases, and make them available to the translator who saves time by not having to type them again. Today’s technology allows for integration of CAT-tools with automatic translation motors or AI. The resulting translation is still the product of a human translator's brain. 

In the New England Law Review (Winter, 1996). Charles M. Grabau and Llewellyn Joseph Gibbons state that "the proper role of the interpreter is to place the non-English speaker, as closely as is linguistically possible, in the same situation as the English speaker in a legal setting." This involves rendering at times technical, extreme, or highly charged colloquial language as well as formal "legalese".

Well, interpretation in general initially requires native fluency in the interpreter's working languages, as well as meticulousness, great mental stamina, flexibility, and extensive vocabulary and general knowledge and the ability to work under some pressure. Court interpreters also need knowledge of the justice system and its terminology, as well as of the ethics of interpretation in a legal setting and the ability to work under even more pressure. If you see yourself described in the first sentence above, and you acquire the adequate knowledge, you may have the makings to be a good court interpreter.

Colleges and universities offer Language programs which will help gain proficiency in a foreign language. Some specific courses cover vocabulary for the Medical Field, Law Enforcement, Business, etc. Some offer Certificate Programs to cover translation or basic skill training for interpreters. Multiple online programs are also available which help meet the minimum training requirements for certification, along with self-directed study materials. 

Students in Tennessee who are interested in becoming interpreters or translators can pursue education and training through several institutions and programs. Here are some options:

1. University of Tennessee (Knoxville)

• Programs: The University of Tennessee offers courses in foreign languages, linguistics, and cross-cultural communication, which are foundational for careers in interpreting and translation.
• Certificate Programs: They may offer specific language and interpreting-related courses, such as medical or court interpreting.

2. Vanderbilt University (Nashville)

• Programs: Vanderbilt offers strong language and cultural programs, particularly in Spanish, French, and other key languages.
• While they may not have a specific degree in translation and interpreting, students can gain a strong language background that supports a career in the field.

3. Tennessee State University (Nashville)

• Programs: TSU offers language programs that provide a solid foundation for future interpreters and translators. Special focus on healthcare and community interpreting may be found through their language and social sciences departments.

4. Southwest Tennessee Community College (Memphis)

• Programs: Offers courses and certifications in translation and interpreting, particularly focusing on Spanish-English interpretation. They provide practical skills needed for medical and community interpreting.

5. Chattanooga State Community College (Chattanooga)

• Programs: Known for offering language courses that can be beneficial for those seeking to become interpreters or translators. They also provide professional development workshops for interpreting in healthcare and legal settings.

6. Tennessee Language Center (Nashville)

• Programs: The Tennessee Language Center offers interpreter and translator training programs, including specific tracks in medical, legal, and community interpreting. They have certification programs to prepare students for professional roles in the field.

7. Pellissippi State Community College (Knoxville)

• Programs: Offers language courses and may have programs or workshops in translation and interpretation, especially for students focused on Spanish-English.

8. Online Programs and Certifications

• American Translators Association (ATA): Although not based in Tennessee, ATA offers certification for translators, which can be pursued after completing language studies.
• Interpreter Education Online: Offers online programs for interpreter training, including medical and legal certification.

By pursuing degrees or certifications through these institutions and programs, students can gain the skills and qualifications needed to become professional interpreters and translators in various fields, such as medical, legal, or community settings.