Ingrid Christensen Archives | INGCO International

Language Access in Minnesota Rehabilitation: Bridging Gaps, Mitigating Risk, and Ensuring Equity for Injured Workers

Ingrid Christensen — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 16:02:41 +0000

Language Access in Minnesota Rehabilitation: Bridging Gaps, Mitigating Risk & Ensuring Equity

What’s the difference between the right word and the almost right word?

According to Mark Twain, it’s “the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.”

In the high-stakes world of Minnesota rehabilitation for injured workers, that difference is everything. Language access can be the pivot point between a successful return-to-work outcome and a costly miscommunication due to language barriers.

This critical challenge was the focus of a vital Continuing Education (CEU) training at the MARP (Minnesota Association of Rehabilitation Providers) Fall Conference on October 10th. We were honored to have INGCO International’s own Founder and President, Ingrid Christensen, co-present “Navigating Cultural Nuances & Legal Responsibilities” alongside the brilliant Attorney Alex Trevino.

The room was filled with Minnesota’s rehabilitation experts, including QRCs (Qualified Rehabilitation Consultants), case workers, nurse case managers, and job placement specialists. Their mission? To analyze the complex ethical and professional responsibilities that define their work when language access including interpretation and translation services is crucial.

Ethical Dilemmas in Rehabilitation: The Impact of Language Barriers

The session wasn’t just theoretical. We dove into the real-world scenarios that rehabilitation professionals face every day.

The “Helpful” Family Member: What happens when a client’s son insists on interpreting? It seems efficient, but it’s an ethical minefield. Are they interpreting word-for-word, or are they “explaining” what they think is best? Is their involvement distorting the message or compromising client confidentiality? Unfortunately family members are rarely trained professionals and do not adhere to the same code of ethics regarding neutrality and confidentiality as a qualified interpreter.
The Cultural Misunderstanding: A vocational consultant notes a client won’t make eye contact and assumes they are disengaged. A professional interpreter would know to flag this as a potential cultural sign of respect, not disinterest. The role of a professional interpreter is critical in identifying and explaining cultural nuances.
The Biased Interpreter: What if the interpreter starts to “explain” the client’s responses instead of interpreting them verbatim? Suddenly, they’ve shifted from a neutral conduit to an advocate, and the integrity of the entire session is compromised, highlighting the importance of a neutral interpreter for accurate communication in rehabilitation.

These scenarios highlight a crucial point: “bilingual” is not the same as “qualified.” A professional interpreter, one of our Wordologists, for example, is bound by a strict code of ethics governing neutrality, accuracy, and confidentiality, especially within the workers compensation industry.

Minnesota’s One-Party Consent Law: Why QRCs Should Always Assume They’re Being Recorded

The conversation took a sharp turn when Alex Trevino addressed a legal reality that had many in the room sitting up straight.

He asked: “Did you know your clients can legally record you without your knowledge?”

Under Minnesota’s “one-party consent” rule (Minnesota Statute § 626A.02), it is legal to record a conversation as long as one person in that conversation consents—and that person can be the one hitting “record”.

Now, apply that to the scenarios above.

Imagine your client is recording a session where a family member is misinterpreting medical terminology, or an unqualified interpreter is simplifying complex return-to-work options. That recording now exists, and the damage is done.

The key takeaway for every professional was stark: “Assume you are always being recorded”.

This legal reality makes the case for professional interpreting in workers’ compensation cases undeniable. It’s not just a “nice-to-have” service; it’s a critical component of your professional risk management.

Transforming Rehabilitation Outcomes Through Professional Language Access

The energy in the room was palpable. This wasn’t just another CEU session; it was a fundamental reframing of how to approach client communication.

At INGCO International, our mission is to provide equal language access for all. When a QRC partners with one of our qualified interpreters, they gain a professionally trained Wordologist who ensures communication is accurate, neutral, and ethically sound—critical for successful Minnesota rehabilitation outcomes. We’re proud to champion inclusion and accessibility in the rehabilitation industry, breaking down communication barriers to ensure every individual has a voice in their recovery journey.

Contact INGCO International today to learn how our professional language services can mitigate risk and enhance equity in your practice.

INGCO International Founder Ingrid Christensen Releases New Book

Ingrid Christensen — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 19:58:22 +0000

“This book is for anybody who cares about trust; those who are interested in what trust means and what the act of trusting and creating trust demands. Brave trust is trusting when you don’t want to. On the days when you don’t feel like it, even when life has taught you not to trust, I hope this book changes your mind. If you are willing to be vulnerably brave with trust, this book is for you.”

From the Introduction of “The Language of Trust: Communicate to Build Meaningful Relationships in Business and Life.”

Trust is at the root of everything we do in business and in life. Perhaps no one knows this better than INGCO International Founder and President Ingrid Christensen. As she prepared to share her first book with the world about all things trust, we sat down to ask her more about writing “The Language of Trust: Communicate to Build Meaningful Relationships in Business and Life.”

When did you first get the idea for this book?

I’ll never forget this moment. I was in Cancun with my friend, Paula. She was deep into the book writing program that I eventually completed. She also happens to be a very persuasive person.

We were walking on the beach chatting about all things life. As a native of Brazil, Paula has lived in several countries where she had to find her voice in languages not her own, oftentimes with other’s help – so the concept of trust in language was something she could relate to firsthand.

As I talked more about the ideas that would eventually be in the book, Paula suddenly stopped, grabbed my shoulders, looked me squarely in the eyes and said “you must write this book.” She also ensured I set up a meeting with Professor Koester, the founder of The Creator’s Institute, by the end of the week. At that moment, I knew that I had to listen to that little voice, nagging me to make this dream a reality.

What do you tell people this book is about? Who should consider reading it?

This book is an exploration of all things trust – what it is, how to get it, how to keep it and how to regain it after it’s lost. It’s written through the lens of Language Service Providers – specifically through my own stories of witnessing trust come to life – but the principles apply to anyone that wants to be a better version of themselves, in business and in life.

And that’s my biggest hope for this book – that it will inspire readers of all backgrounds and professions who are looking to forge deeper connections with the people in their lives. To realize that every word we use matters, especially when you’re given the incredible responsibility of being someone else’s voice.

What was the hardest part about writing this book? What came easy?

Surprisingly, (or perhaps not so surprising!), one of the most difficult parts of this book has to do with language – specifically the subtitle. I found it next to impossible to find a subtitle that felt as powerful and inspiring as “The Language of Trust.” I went through hundreds of options before my editor let me know the one we selected was a winner.

While nothing about writing this book felt particularly easy, I would say what felt most natural was the physical writing process itself. That feeling of really getting into the flow. I found myself completely immersed for hours at a time in a unique sort of rhythm while writing. It was an ethereal feeling unlike anything I’d experienced before.

Tell us more about the imagery of the “knot” on the cover.

The knot represents the enormous effort that goes into trust creation. For me, it stems from the formation of the rope – strands of thread spun together one at a time. The rope is then comes together to create a formation of give and take that is continuously tested over time.

Trust symbols are powerful because they instantly convey all that trust encompasses, from the very personal to the extreme complexities of the fabric of communities that surround us. Symbols, present throughout history and today, remind us of the qualities that they represent.

I believe the knot, in particular, evokes a deep knowing of what is required to build and sustain trust. Knots are convoluted, turned around upside down, twisted and intertwined – precisely as humans are. Knots are perhaps the most perfect metaphor for trust because they represent safety, interconnectedness, and yes, even confinement and captivity. Trust, while incredibly powerful in unification, also is a binding commitment. Knots hold us safe and serve as a reminder that we have the power to untie that which binds us in an un-serving way.

The Language of Trust: Communicate to Build Meaningful Relationships in Business and Life is available for pre-order now and will be published on March 14, 2023. Click the link above to get your copy and hear what others have to say about it.

Influencer: Ingrid Christensen Featured By Minnesota Chamber of Commerce

Ingrid Christensen — Wed, 10 May 2017 19:33:36 +0000

INFLUENCER: INGRID CHRISTENSEN

Ingrid Christensen, President
INGCO International
St. Paul

At INGCO, we believe that language is a living, breathing entity. Our mission is to preserve the art of language through the careful provision of interpreting and translating words to give every person equal access to language.

What makes a good business leader?
There are a lot of qualities that make a good business leader. I most respect and value a leader who has the courage to be vulnerable and empathetic.

INGRID CHRISTENSEN

What’s your favorite recent movie?
Because my movie-watching preferences are currently dominated by my 11-year old son’s obsession with World War II, I must share my favorite recent book, Presence by Amy Cuddy.

Who inspires you the most? Why?
There is no shortage of inspiration in the world, but when I need to make a tough decision, I rely on my parents to listen and help me make strong choices. They have always been my biggest supporters and challengers. Without them I would not be who or where I am today.

You are a member of the Minnesota Chamber Board. What are the benefits for you personally and for your company?
I have always received so much more than I have given from every board service experience. The Minnesota Chamber Board is no different; to work closely with a group of intelligent, dedicated and hardworking individuals on specific tasks is extremely rewarding both personally and professionally. I have learned about true leadership, compromise and dedication, which carries across every aspect of my life. I have also forged lifelong relationships with board members who will be friends for many years to come.

You have assisted in our grassroots efforts by testifying before legislative committees to advance business priorities. What advice can you give to others? What has been most effective for you?
When I’m presenting, I like to know my audience and tell a story. The way I present to legislative committees is different than the way I present to my son’s fifth-grade classroom, yet the method is the same. Know your audience: Who are you speaking to? What do they care about? It’s essential to tailor your words and messages to actually reach your target market. And tell a story. Numbers and stats are great, as backup material. What sticks and engages the listener is storytelling.

What prompted you to start your own business?
I started this company with a desire to lead from a point of respect — respect for all languages and all cultures. I saw other agencies running their companies without much experience, and I knew my linguist background would serve me well. It also helped that I was in a state of sleep deprivation having decided to start the business when my son was just 6-week olds. Perfect timing!

What do you enjoy most about Minnesota?
I enjoy its natural beauty and easy access to adventure. The diverse people, food and activities make it a great place to live and work.

What’s your favorite pastime/hobby?
I love to read and spend time with friends and family. Beyond that, traveling and experiencing the world are essential to my happiness.

Read the original article here.

Ingrid Christensen Joins Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Ingrid Christensen — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 13:24:51 +0000

INGCO International President Ingrid Christensen elected to Board of Directors of Minnesota Chamber of C0mmerce

August 19, 2015

On August 17, 2015, Christensen joined the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in a 3-year directors term.

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is the State’s largest and premier business organization, representing more than 2,300 businesses of all types and sizes across Minnesota. Their vision is to strengthen the business environment to improve the lives of all Minnesotans.

I see this as a fabulous opportunity. Our business is quite small yet our footprint is global. It’s an exciting opportunity for me to share our needs and learn from other business leaders; I welcome a breadth of new information, experiences and knowledge. I hope that my participation will help keep Minnesota a great place to start, invest in and grow a business.

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce works to strengthen the business environment and improve the lives of all Minnesotans. They are an important voice for all Minnesotan’s as they work to continue driving economic development for the entire State. With over 70% of Minnesota businesses employing 50 people or less, understanding and hearing the voice of the small business is essential to the overall success of the Minnesota economy.

I am honored to serve the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. As a small business owner, this is a unique opportunity to present my needs and priorities to better collaborate with the needs of all businesses across the State. We have an incredibly diverse business pool in our State in relation to size, industry and make-up. In face, it is estimated that 18% of Minnesota businesses are immigrant-owned, while the percentage of immigrants in our State makes up 7% of our total population. I know that our business has access to diversity across Minnesota and the world and hope to bring that information forward.

Ingrid Christensen is the President and Owner of INGCO International. Started 16 years ago, they provide document translation, on-site interpreting and global marketing services in 200+ languages across the world. We’d love to hear from you and see how we can solve your global communications issues!

Joan Thompson Honored as Marvelous Mentor

Ingrid Christensen — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 17:40:16 +0000

Joan Thompson, CFO of Minnesota Wire, Honored as Marvelous Mentor

I have the honor and privilege of having Joan Thompson as my mentor. I want to be very clear in this statement: I am the lucky one. I receive bits of knowledge and guidance from Joan, even when I don’t want it (like when she told me to get my hair cut, ASAP.) Not all advice is easy to hear, but it’s advice, and when it comes from a mentor that I respect and admire, I listen. “Joan took me under her wings. It wasn’t immediate; I had to prove that I was worthy of her mentorship, knowledge and help. But with her help, I have grown into a more confident and poised business owner.” Nominating Joan for the Marvelous Mentor award was one way for me to say thank you and show her how appreciative I am for her guidance and service.

Having a mentor is essential.

The business world can be tough to navigate. With so many things competing to pull your attention away from the tasks you need to accomplish, a guiding compass is really important to keep you in-line with your goals. As a young professional, it’s even easier to get distracted and off-course. Having Joan as my mentor is like having a compass; she’s there to guide me and set me straight when I need straightening out.

There isn’t a guidebook on how to be an adult.

You need to figure adulthood out as you go along, but you don’t need to figure it out alone. In fact, you shouldn’t. There are so many people that want others to succeed and grow. And there are a lot of people that would rather see you fail. Building a strong team will lead to a great home-field advantage and keep the naysayers at bay and the supporters on your side.

It’s who you know as much as what you know.

You can’t network yourself to business success, and you can’t just find a mentor to take you there. You need to put in the work and stay focused and strong. So yes, what you know is essential. But who you know can open doors for you.

“I am so lucky to call Joan Thompson a mentor. She has done so much for me personally and professionally. I didn’t have to think twice about honoring her with this nomination. Joan is a loyal supporter and asks the hard questions, even when I don’t want to answer them. As an entrepreneur and small business owner, it’s easy to be distracted by shiny objects get caught up in the next big idea. When I start wavering too much, Joan is like a gentle hand that pushes me back on track. When I need to make tough decisions regarding hiring and firing, or regarding financial issues, Joan always presents responses based on her professional experience.”

Joan Thompson, Marvelous Mentor.

Beyond being my mentor, Joan Thompson is the CFO of Minnesota Wire, a privately-owned, custom wire and cable manufacturer. Since 1968, the Wagner family has run and owned Minnesota Wire, transforming it from the original bulk cable manufacturer to a prosperous custom wire and cable manufacturer that excels in cable assemblies, R&D, Testing and Design Engineering.

Minnesota Wire provides custom cable to medical, defense, and commercial industries in need of a custom solution. With their EMC Chamber as well as Carbon Nanotube, mechanical and electrical labs, they have an abundance of resources at their facilities that provide answers to customers’ problems and help create high quality, custom wire and cable.

Joan Thompson was honored as a Marvelous Mentor by the Twin Cities Business Magazine in the August 2015 issue.

Ingrid Christensen Joins Minnesota Red Cross Board of Directors

Ingrid Christensen — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 17:29:19 +0000

By unanimous vote, INGCO International President Ingrid Christensen elected to serve on the Minnesota Red Cross Board of Directors

July 1, 2015

On June 20, 2015 Christensen began a 3-year term on the Minnesota Red Cross Board of Directors. “I am honored to serve the Minnesota Red Cross. Their mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors is exactly in-line with my personal values and the mission of INGCO International. I feel that serving the Minnesota Red Cross is a meaningful way to lend my professional experience and expertise to a remarkable international organization. I have also found that board service is a rewarding and impactful way to give back to the community in which I live and work.”

The Minnesota Red Cross is a community-based humanitarian organization and helps people learn how to take care of their families and neighbors. the Red Cross strengthens communities and readies them for all types of disasters, including home fires, tornadoes, winter storms and health emergencies. With more than 2,000 volunteers, including more than 130 youth volunteers, together they ensure that the Red Cross fulfills its mission. The Minnesota Regions serves 5.2 million people across Minnesota and part of western Wisconsin.

“I am excited for the next three years to best serve the best interests of the Minnesota Red Cross and look forward to the opportunity to be an outstanding ambassador.”

Did you know?

Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood.

The need for blood is constant — are you willing to help?

INGCO International provides document translation, on-site interpreting and global marketing services in 200+ languages across the world.

Minnesota Announces Foreign Trade Office in Germany

Ingrid Christensen — Wed, 31 Jul 2013 21:56:48 +0000

Will Minnesota’s new foreign trade office in Dusseldorf, Germany equate to increased business opportunities?

Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton completed a trade mission to Europe which included stops in Germany, Norway and Sweden. Governor Dayton travelled with a consortium of business leaders to Europe in June of 2013 in an effort to promote Minnesota exports and attract foreign direct investment into the state. During the trip, Governor Dayton announced that a foreign trade office representing Minnesota business interests would open in Dusseldorf, Germany. Dusseldorf is located in the North Rhine Westphalia (NRW) region and is the “Twin City” to Neuss, Germany. Neuss and Saint Paul, Minnesota have maintained a strong Sister City relationship since 2008. Germany is centrally located in Europe and serves as a hub for many industries. In addition, the strong German economy makes the location an excellent choice for expanded international presence.

As a precursor to Governor Dayton’s trip in June, a group of 26 Saint Paul leaders representing a cross-section of businesses travelled to Neuss, Germany in support of the Sister City relationship and it’s long standing ties between Minnesota and Germany. A large group of Saint Paul young professionals from the Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce joined the trip. The young professionals support and inclusion in the trip was perhaps instrumental in strengthening the ties between the two cities. “I decided to go on the trip because I believe in the power of international networking…and I know that the relationship between Saint Paul and Neuss is so powerful.“ states Ingrid Christensen, one of the trip participants.

The presence of a foreign trade office is very powerful and leads to increased business opportunities. An office represents a willingness to engage in import/export endeavors and opens up options for global competitiveness. For example, the state of Pennsylvania invested $6 million in 2011 to open 11 foreign trade offices producing $831 million in export sales.

Investing in actual office presence reflects the seriousness of both parties to engage in increased global trade activities. The investment in opening an international office is expensive yet the Governor realizes that the benefits outweigh the risks. For example, Minnesota opened a similar office in Shanghai and exports to China increased by 71% in the first year.

Germany is Minnesota’s 5^th largest trade partner with a value of $728 million in sales. This is a huge opportunity for Minnesota businesses focusing on international expansion. Going global is on the forefront of most Minnesota businesses and Governor Dayton’s support in international expansion reflects that movement.