This week we remember our founder and industry pioneer, Bill Wood (deceased March 2019). As an innovator, Bill always strived to provide our clients and industry with the best interpretation solutions. He lived by his motto: “We care about what we do.”
In 1972, Bill helped to patent an early version of an FM receiver designed for the classroom and language labs. As he began using the technology in different settings, demand soon grew, and Bill transitioned to focusing his efforts on Simultaneous and Conference Interpretation.
Bill loved working with interpreters. He valued the human element of interpretation and is known for his quote, “Interpreters will not be replaced by technology, they will be replaced by interpreters who use technology.”
He worked with interpreters to create booths and interpreter stations that were truly designed for the end-user, the interpreter. Features on his stations were eventually patented.
Bill was a pioneer in remote simultaneous interpretation. He had early patents for key switching technology used in the hospital setting. Early remote simultaneous interpretation projects included the Shuttle Transport System Mission with Japan in 1992 and the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
As we face these unprecedented times, our team honors Bill’s legacy by continuing his commitment to excellence. Like Bill, we care about what we do.