Minnesota Archives | INGCO International

Minnesota Contract for Translation and Interpreting

Ingrid Christensen — Mon, 19 May 2025 16:50:13 +0000

Announcing INGCO International State of Minnesota Contract for Translation and Interpreting

Meeting Translation and Interpreting Needs in Minnesota’s Public Sector

Are you a Minnesota state agency, county, city, or school district struggling to connect with your diverse communities? Do language barriers hinder your ability to deliver essential services, disseminate critical information, and foster genuine engagement?

Navigating the complexities of providing clear, accurate information across different languages can feel overwhelming. You might be facing:

Risk of miscommunication: Inaccurate or culturally insensitive translations can lead to misunderstandings, legal issues, and a breakdown of trust with the communities you serve.
Difficulty reaching diverse populations: Language barriers can prevent crucial information from reaching those who need it most, creating inequities in access to services and resources.
Budget constraints: Finding cost-effective and reliable translation services can be a significant challenge, stretching already limited resources.
Time-consuming procurement processes: Dealing with individual contracts for language services adds administrative burden and pulls valuable staff away from core tasks.

You deserve a partner who understands these frustrations and can provide a clear path towards effective communication for everyone you serve.

Ready to get started?

Our services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that state agencies can access interpreters whenever they are needed.
We have systems in place to respond to and fulfill requests promptly, minimizing delays and ensuring efficient service delivery.
Contact your manager or email the INGCO team for help!

INGCO International: Your Trusted Partner for State of Minnesota Translation Services via Minnesota CPV Contract

In our commitment to facilitating clear and accessible communication across Minnesota, INGCO International is proud to announce that we have been awarded a contract through the State of Minnesota’s Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV). This achievement positions us as a key provider of written translation services to state agencies, as well as other eligible entities throughout the state. As an approved TG/ED/VO company under NAICS code 541930, INGCO International is prepared to support your language needs.

Understanding the Minnesota Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV)

The CPV plays a vital role in how Minnesota’s public sector acquires essential goods and services. To fully understand the value this program brings, let’s delve into the details:

What is the CPV? The Cooperative Purchasing Venture is a statewide program that allows eligible entities to leverage the purchasing power of the State of Minnesota. This means that instead of each city, county, or school district needing to negotiate individual contracts, they can “piggyback” on contracts already established by the Office of State Procurement (OSP) for Minnesota state agencies.
Who are CPV Members? A wide array of organizations can benefit from the CPV. Eligible members include counties, cities, towns, and townships. Furthermore, school districts, and certain tax-exempt, non-profit entities and charitable organizations can also participate.
What are the Benefits of the CPV? One of the most significant advantages of the CPV is the potential for cost savings. By aggregating purchasing power, the state secures competitive pricing, and these savings are passed on to CPV members. This helps state agencies and other organizations maximize their budget and allocate resources effectively.

Streamlined Procurement Processes: The CPV simplifies the procurement process, saving valuable time and administrative overhead. Participating entities can avoid the complexities of developing and managing individual contracts, freeing up staff to focus on core responsibilities.
Support for Sustainability Goals: In an era of increasing environmental awareness, the CPV can also support sustainability goals. The state often incorporates sustainable purchasing practices into its contracts, which CPV members can then utilize.

How Does the CPV Work? The Office of State Procurement (OSP) within the Minnesota Department of Administration is responsible for establishing contracts with vendors to supply goods and services to state agencies. These contracts are the foundation of the CPV. Eligible entities can then utilize these pre-negotiated contracts to purchase the same goods and services, often under the same favorable terms and conditions.
The Legal Framework: The CPV operates under the authority of Minnesota Statute § 16C.03, subd. 10, providing a clear legal basis for the program.
Oversight and Management: The Minnesota Department of Administration provides oversight and management for the CPV, ensuring its smooth operation and effectiveness.

INGCO International: Your Dedicated Translation and Interpreting Provider

This CPV contract enables INGCO International to provide a comprehensive suite of written translation services to Minnesota state agencies, counties, cities, school districts, and other approved organizations. We understand the critical importance of accurate and culturally sensitive communication in the public sector.

Our Specialized Translation Services for Minnesota State Agencies and CPV Members

INGCO International offers a tailored range of translation services designed to meet the unique needs of Minnesota state agencies and CPV members:

Government Document Translation: We accurately translate policy documents, legal texts, reports, and internal communications, ensuring clarity and compliance.
Website and Digital Content Localization: We adapt your websites, online portals, and digital resources to effectively reach Minnesota’s diverse communities.
Community Outreach and Engagement Materials: We translate brochures, flyers, public service announcements, and other materials to facilitate effective communication with residents.
Healthcare Translation Services: We provide precise translation of medical documents, patient information, and healthcare resources, ensuring accessibility and accuracy in healthcare settings.
Educational Material Translation: We translate curriculum, school policies, parent communications, and other educational materials to support Minnesota’s students and families.

Why Choose INGCO International?

Highest Available Certifications: INGCO International distinguishes itself through its adherence to the highest available certifications for a document translation company, specifically ISO and ASTM standards. This dual certification is not merely a formality but a testament to our rigorous processes and unwavering commitment to quality. We operate under these stringent frameworks, ensuring that every translation project meets internationally recognized benchmarks for accuracy, consistency, and cultural appropriateness. This unique combination of ISO and ASTM certifications positions INGCO International as a leader in the field, providing unparalleled reliability and precision in language services. Our clients can be confident that they are partnering with an organization that sets the industry standard for excellence.
Experienced “Wordologists”: Our team of professional linguists, whom we call “Wordologists,” are experts in their respective fields. They possess a deep understanding of language, culture, and terminology, ensuring accurate and culturally appropriate translations.
Commitment to Quality: We adhere to rigorous quality assurance processes to guarantee the highest level of accuracy and consistency in every translation.
Technology Proficient: We utilize advanced translation tools and technologies to enhance efficiency and maintain consistency, while always prioritizing the human element of language.
Focus on Client Needs: We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and building long-term partnerships with our clients. We understand the specific requirements of state agencies and CPV members and tailor our services to meet those needs.

INGCO International is proud to serve the State of Minnesota and its communities through this CPV contract. We are committed to providing reliable, accurate, and culturally sensitive translation services that promote effective communication and accessibility for all.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV) in Minnesota?

The Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV) is a statewide program that allows eligible entities in Minnesota to leverage the state’s purchasing power. It enables cities, counties, school districts, and other organizations to use contracts established by the Office of State Procurement (OSP) for state agencies.

Who can participate in the CPV?

Eligible CPV members include counties, cities, towns, townships, school districts, and certain tax-exempt, non-profit, and charitable organizations.

What are the benefits of using the CPV for translation and interpreting?

The benefits of using the CPV include optimized budget efficiency, streamlined procurement processes, and support for sustainability goals.

How does the CPV help with budget efficiency?

By aggregating purchasing power, the state secures competitive pricing, which is then passed on to CPV members, resulting in cost savings.

What does INGCO International offer through the CPV contract?

INGCO International offers a comprehensive suite of written translation services to Minnesota state agencies, counties, cities, school districts, and other approved organizations.

What types of translation services does INGCO International provide?

INGCO International provides government document translation, website and digital content localization, community outreach and engagement materials translation, healthcare translation services, and educational material translation.

What types of interpretation services does INGCO International provide?

INGCO International provides government interpreting services, face to face interpreters, in-person interpretation, over the phone interpreting and on demand interpreting for the State of Minnesota.

Who are INGCO International’s “Wordologists”?

INGCO International’s “Wordologists” are their team of professional linguists who are experts in their respective fields, with a deep understanding of language, culture, and terminology.

What makes INGCO International a reliable translation provider?

INGCO International has experienced “Wordologists,” a commitment to quality assurance, technological proficiency, and a focus on client needs.

How does the CPV streamline procurement processes?

The CPV simplifies the procurement process by allowing participating entities to use pre-negotiated contracts, avoiding the complexities of managing individual contracts.

Under what legal framework does the CPV operate?

The CPV operates under the authority of Minnesota Statute § 16C.03, subd. 10.

24/7/365 Availability and Rapid Response: We understand that interpreting needs can arise unexpectedly.

- Our services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that state agencies can access interpreters whenever they are needed.
- We have systems in place to respond to and fulfill requests promptly, minimizing delays and ensuring efficient service delivery.
- Contact your manager or email the INGCO team for help!

Translators for Anoka County Minnesota

Ingrid Christensen — Fri, 16 May 2025 18:05:49 +0000

INGCO International: Making Communication Easy for Anoka County

Anoka County is dedicated to serving everyone in the community, no matter what language they speak. That’s why they have a plan to make sure people with limited English skills can still get the services they need. As a preferred contract holder, INGCO International is here to help! We’re a vetted partner with Anoka County, providing contracted language services to make communication smooth and effective.

How to schedule interpreters for Anoka County?

Why Anoka County Cares About Language Access

Anoka County Human Services has a special plan called the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan. This plan is required by federal law (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964) and makes sure that everyone has equal access to County services.

Here are the key things to know about Anoka County’s LEP Plan:

Understanding Community Needs: Anoka County regularly checks to see which languages are most common in the area so INGCO can provide the right help.
Providing Interpreters: The County contracts with INGCO International to offer interpreters who can help people understand and be understood.
Fast Help: Anoka County is committed to providing interpreter services quickly, so there are no delays in getting assistance. Urgent interpreters in Anoka County help you communicate.
Free Service: People who need interpreters never have to pay for them – it’s a free service.
Qualified Interpreters: The INGCO interpreters approved by the County are trained and skilled in both English and the other language.

How INGCO International Helps Anoka County

INGCO International has a contract with Anoka County to provide a variety of language services. We make sure Anoka County staff can communicate clearly with people who have limited English skills. Need to request an interpreter now?

Here’s what we do for Anoka County:

In-Person Interpreting: We send interpreters to County offices to help with meetings, appointments, and other face-to-face situations. We can get an interpreter to you within 24 hours. This includes helping people fill out forms and paperwork.
Video Interpreting: We provide interpreters through video calls, so you can see and talk to the interpreter on a screen. This is another way to get help within 24 hours, and it also includes help with forms.
Interpreting by Phone: We offer interpreters over the phone, and we can connect you to an interpreter in just 10 minutes for urgent situations.
Document Translation: We translate written documents for Anoka County when needed.

How INGCO International Makes a Difference for Anoka County

INGCO International helps Anoka County in several important ways:

Clear Communication: We make sure that County staff and people with limited English skills can understand each other, avoiding confusion and mistakes.
Accurate Interpreting: Our interpreters are trained to be accurate and neutral, so everyone gets the right information.
Help with Paperwork: We provide interpreters to help people fill out forms, so they can access important benefits and services.
Following the Rules: We follow all the guidelines and regulations, so Anoka County can be sure they are providing equal access to everyone.

Resources for Anoka County Staff

Anoka County gives its employees the information and training they need to work with people who have limited English skills. INGCO International is a partner in making this happen by providing reliable and professional interpreter services.

Who Uses Language Services?

Many Anoka County divisions use language services, like those involved in health services like MnCHOICES assessments and Child and Teen Checkups.

Anoka County Human Services

Anoka County Human Services actively uses interpreters, both on-site and through telephone services, to facilitate communication with individuals who have limited English proficiency or are deaf or hard of hearing. INGCO International is a contracted vendor that provides these services.

Anoka County Attorney’s Office

The Anoka County Attorney’s Office contracts INGCO International interpreters for court proceedings and other legal matters to ensure fair access for all residents.

Anoka County Library

The Anoka County Library contracts with INGCO International for American Sign Language (ASL) and spoken language interpreter services for library programs.

Ready to Schedule?

Reach out to your dedicated scheduling team now or log in to your dedicated scheduling portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Information

What language services does INGCO International provide to Anoka County?

INGCO International offers in-person interpreting, video interpreting, interpreting by phone, and document translation services to Anoka County.

Is there a cost for Anoka County residents to use interpreter services?

No, interpreter services are provided free of charge to individuals needing assistance with limited English proficiency in Anoka County.

How quickly can an interpreter be provided for Anoka County?

In-person and video interpreters can be provided within 24 hours, while phone interpreters for urgent situations are available in just 10 minutes.

What is Anoka County’s Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan?

Anoka County’s LEP Plan, required by federal law (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964), ensures equal access to County services for everyone, regardless of their English language skills.

Are the interpreters qualified and trained?

Yes, INGCO International’s interpreters approved by Anoka County are trained and skilled in both English and the other language required.

Scheduling and Accessing Services

How do I schedule an interpreter for Anoka County?

You can schedule an interpreter by visiting https://ingcointernational.com/request-a-quote/ or reaching out to your dedicated scheduling team.

Is there a dedicated scheduling portal for Anoka County staff?

Yes, there is a dedicated scheduling portal for Anoka County staff to access interpreter services.

What types of situations require an interpreter in Anoka County?

Interpreters are needed for various situations, including meetings, appointments, completing forms, court proceedings, and library programs, especially in departments like Human Services, the Attorney’s Office, and the Library.

Does INGCO International provide document translation services, and what kind?

Yes, INGCO International provides document translation services for Anoka County. The specific types of documents translated can vary, including legal documents, forms, and informational materials.

Which Anoka County departments use language services?

Several departments utilize language services, including Anoka County Human Services (particularly for MnCHOICES assessments and Child and Teen Checkups), the Anoka County Attorney’s Office, and the Anoka County Library.

New Year, New Opportunity to Connect across Cultures

Ingrid Christensen — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 20:06:54 +0000

As we roll the calendar over into a new year, you’re probably thinking about all the new things coming your way – goals, projects, campaigns, products, and more. It’s exciting stuff that you’ll want to share with your employees, clients, and prospects so they can see where you’re going and how they can contribute to your success. But many companies struggle to do this effectively, failing to consider language barriers and cultural nuances when talking about their business.

To achieve your business goals, it’s critical that you engage people in ways that resonate with them personally. Language services can help you do that by equipping people with information in the languages they prefer and use every day. Not only can they better comprehend and retain your message, but they will appreciate your inclusive approach to communication.

Here are three things you should consider as you start communicating in the new year:

1. Recognize that Global is Universal

Now more than ever, your content needs to meet global market needs to connect across cultures and expand your reach and mission. Consider all your stakeholders across the supply chain and each of their respective communication needs. Interested in growing your company through online resources? You’ll need to appeal to a multilingual base and deliver materials in the languages your audience prefers.

Not only can INGCO serve as your single partner for all translation and interpretation services, but we can also support your technology needs and share business practices. By consolidating your spend with a single global provider like INGCO, you’ll benefit from efficiency, quality, and consistency.

2. Think Outside of Onsite

While 2022 may bring the return of more in-person events, it’s safe to say that we’ll be looking at virtual and hybrid events for the foreseeable future. And that’s not just because of COVID-19. The rise of ESG (that’s Environmental, Social and Governance) has sustainability high on everyone’s radar. Even for non-virtual events, more companies are looking at the value of using virtual interpreters and mitigating the environmental impact of flying interpreters to their events. All told, this means it’s never been more important to consider translation and interpretation across every avenue in 2022, including in your e-learning and virtual events.

3. Set Your Own Standard

With the world’s growing focus on accessibility and inclusion, many companies are saying they care, but they’re not backing it up with action. Some are considering accessibility as an afterthought, rather than building it into the fabric of how they work. Still others are doing the bare minimum based on legal requirements, hoping they send the right message without added effort. What feels right to you? Set your own moral standard based on your values and promote inclusion by making language services a priority in 2022.

Delivering a comprehensive communication strategy that accounts for your various stakeholder groups and language needs is no small task. But we’re here to help and can handle the heavy lifting to ensure your message hits the mark. Visit our website or send us a note, and we’ll be in touch to help you get started!

Meet Natalia Campero – Project Coordinator

Ingrid Christensen — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 14:53:34 +0000

Here at INGCO International, we’re proud of the deep experience and profound skillset our people bring to our mission of ensuring every person has access to critical information. Our small but mighty team of talented professionals are the lifeblood of INGCO and enable every accomplishment we achieve, and we want to introduce you to some of these amazing employees.

Natalia Campero is one of INGCO’s talented project coordinators. It’s her job to make sure we stay on track and deliver what we promise on time. In fact, Natalia has been recognized by a number of our customers for her exceptional work ethic, her knack for delivering ahead of deadline, and her passion for exceeding client expectations.

Natalia joined the language services industry in April 2020, working for an Egyptian company with an Argentinian branch start-up. She is passionate about using English to communicate with others. After going to school to be a Certified Public English-Spanish translator, she loves that she’s using her degree at INGCO. Natalia’s native language is Spanish, but she taught herself English by listening to music and watching movies in English as a child. She would love to learn French, Italian and German, too.

Outside of work, Natalia loves reading, doing yoga, going on walks, doing more yoga, listening to music, and watching movies…oh, and she also does yoga. (We are not kidding. Natalia REALLY likes yoga, folks.) She also loves to see the world. Natalia’s favorite place on earth is London’s Soho district. She loves the bohemian culture and visiting the Chinatown neighborhood there. Soho is home to many bars and venues where legends like The Rolling Stones and Jimmy Hendrix played before they were famous. In Soho, you can find colorful murals and art on nearly every wall, which J.K. Rowling used as inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.

Natalia has her heart set on a trip to Edinburgh one day. She appreciates how the Scottish culture is more laid back and easy going. She hopes to visit some of the iconic Scottish pubs and enjoy live music, as well as take in art and connect with people who visit from across the globe. During her stay, she’ll be sure to visit many historical sites, including one of the oldest castles in Europe!

Meet Andy MacGregor – INGCO Sales Executive

Ingrid Christensen — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:16:17 +0000

Today, we invite you to meet Andy MacGregor, who manages the Sales Team at INGCO International. Andy is originally from Portsmouth, United Kingdom, but he’s a true citizen of the world, having lived in seven countries across four continents. Six years ago, he moved to Minnesota. His love of travel and the many cultures and languages that make up our global community compelled him to join INGCO in September 2020.

While Andy speaks a little French, Georgian, and Spanish, he’s in awe of our multilingual staff members and linguists and loves connecting with customers and potential clients to share how expert language services can help them truly engage with their global audiences.

“Interpretation and translation services can really level up a business and help them engage with their non-English speaking customers, colleagues and community,” Andy explains. “Language can bring us together, but it also has the power to divide. Providing people with equal access to information gives everyone a fair chance to show who they can be, to make a difference, and to engage with their community. I feel I can help redress these imbalances by doing what I do at INGCO. I love being a part of a team where I can make a little difference each day by connecting organizations with our excellent services.”

Andy is also a bit of a foodie and enjoys sampling cuisine from cultures and locations across the world, and he loves giving back to the community. Recently, Andy combined these passions to support a project with local Minnesota foodbank Second Harvest Heartland in which INGCO helped translate a series of recipe cards into a variety of languages and help people make affordable, delicious and nutritious meals to feed their family. “The food we put into our bodies is so important,” he shares, “And it can be confusing to know what to do with new ingredients, especially if you’re from a different culture, so it was incredibly satisfying to help make a difference with this project.”

When he’s not at work, Andy’s your classic tea-drinking, soccer-loving Brit. He’s also an expert hide-and-seeker and fort-builder thanks to his two daughters, Eva 3, and Kiera 1. This avid traveler’s favorite trip was to Machu Picchu in Peru, where the sun rising over the old ruins created an indelible impression. Andy would also love to see the Himalayas up close.

Andy loves linking up with new and old friends and hearing great stories, so feel free to reach out to Andy to connect about INGCO International, travel, or soccer. Heck, the first cup of tea is on him.

INGCO 2021 Tekne Award Finalist

Ingrid Christensen — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 18:18:09 +0000

INGCO International Named 2021 Tekne Award Finalist

Twin Cities-based INGCO International finalist in digital transformation category

Minneapolis, September 22, 2021: The Minnesota Technical Association today announced that INGCO International is a finalist for the 2021 Tekne Awards in the Digital Transformation category.

The award highlights INGCO International’s first-in-industry Hybrid Translation Management Solution (HTMS) that combines an industry-leading Translation Management System (TMS) and human translators, helping organizations translate documents into hundreds of languages quickly, efficiently, and consistently.

INGCO International’s proprietary Hybrid Translation Solution revolutionized the way organizations engage with their non-English speaking staff or local community. No longer is document translation a nice-to-have, or an arduous time and resource-draining endeavor. The hybrid solution makes it quick, easy, and affordable.

This technology transforms communication, helping organizations to live their diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. Through the submission portal, translations can be analyzed and priced in less than a minute, enabling organizations to focus on their core business.

About INGCO International

INGCO International is an award-winning translation and interpreting company that gives every person equal access to communication through translation and interpreting services. Their expert team of linguists are proficient in more than 200 languages and help clients of all sizes clearly communicate to the audiences that matter most to them.

New Partnership Enables Complex, Global Meetings While Boosting Inclusion

Ingrid Christensen — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 23:21:31 +0000

Twin Cities-based INGCO International offers rare “one-stop shop” for global organizations

Minneapolis, June 7, 2021: INGCO International, a leading translation and interpreting company, today announced a global partnership with KUDO, an innovative, multilingual web conferencing platform, to facilitate complex global meetings. KUDO’s innovative technology enables INGCO’s expert linguists to simultaneously interpret meetings across multiple languages, providing every person with equal access to critical information.

Clients now have one global provider to manage all aspects of broadcasting their global meetings – whether in person, hybrid, or remote – so they can focus on the content itself and on engaging stakeholders in the event. As one of a select few KUDO partners in the United States, this “one-stop shop” is a unique benefit INGCO provides its clients.

“Our clients have a lot to manage when putting on global meetings,” said Ingrid Christensen, INGCO International president and founder. “INGCO International is one of the only ‘one-stop shops’ in the United States that can take web conferencing technology and simultaneous interpreting off our clients’ plates, thanks to our partnership with KUDO.”

KUDO’s technology is designed to be intuitive and accessible across 100+ languages, making it a great way for U.S.-based companies to foster inclusion. The platform itself is fully multilingual so attendees access all features and functionality – not just the meeting content itself – in their native language.

Access more information on the INGCO-KUDO partnership and contact Andy MacGregor to discuss how to streamline your next complex global meeting.

About INGCO International

INGCO International is a leading translation and interpreting company that gives every person equal access to communication through translation and interpreting services. INGCO’s expert team of linguists are proficient in more than 200 languages and help clients of all sizes clearly communicate to the audiences that matter most to them.

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.

Workers’ Compensation Interpreters

Ingrid Christensen — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 16:46:13 +0000

Workers’ compensation interpreters work with limited English speaking employees that have been injured at work

Employees injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits pursuant to the employer’s obligation. Workers’ compensation interpreters are professionally trained interpreters that work with limited English speaking injured workers throughout their treatment and recovery. In many states when the injured employee does not speak English, he or she is entitled to a workers’ compensation interpreter and the employer is required to provide reasonably required interpreter services during medical treatment appointments for an injured worker who is unable to speak, understand, or communicate in English.

Workers’ compensation interpreters may be necessary for the following settings:

Telephone calls and recorded statements
Initial meetings between the injured workers and the insurer, QRC or Case Manager
Medical appointments
Physical and/or occupational therapy appointments
Independent medical exams (IME)
Adverse medical exams (AME)
Depositions
Mediations
Arbitrations

Currently, the State of Minnesota does not mandate payment regulations in regards to interpreter services but it is a general practice that workers’ compensation interpreters are reimbursed for their professional services by the employer or workers’ compensation insurer. Typically workers’ compensation interpreters are reimbursed pursuant to standard payment rates including:

Medical Appointments

2-hour minimum pay per on-site appointment
Appointments scheduled for 2+ hours are billed for the scheduled time
Appointments that last 2+ hours when not initially scheduled for that length of time are billed in 30 minute increments past the 2-hour minimum
Hourly rate depends on a variety of criteria including language, location and certification requirements
Mileage (Federal mileage rate) and parking reimbursed when applicable
Appointments cancelled with less than 24-business hours notice are billed at the 2-hour minimum rate
Appointments cancelled with more than 24-business hours notice are not billed

Legal Appointments

3-hour minimum pay per on-site appointment
Appointments scheduled for 3+ hours are billed for the scheduled time AND require 2 interpreters
Appointments that last 3+ hours when not initially scheduled for that length of time are billed in 30 minute increments past the 2-hour minimum
Hourly rate depends on a variety of criteria including language, location and certification requirements
Mileage (Federal mileage rate) and parking reimbursed when applicable
Appointments cancelled with less than 24-business hours notice are billed at the 3-hour minimum rate
Appointments cancelled with more than 24-business hours notice are not billed

The “Working With Interpreters: A Multicultural Experience” workshop was held to help stakeholders become more familiar with the issues surrounding the use of interpreter services in the workers’ compensation context. The workshop was geared toward helping all workers’ compensation professionals learn how to make the best use of interpreter services and what to expect from an interpreter in a variety of situations.

INGCO International has 15+ years of professional experience within the workers’ compensation system. While we are base in Minneapolis, Minnesota, our service area extends across Minnesota and the United States. Our wide network of professional workers’ compensation interpreters in all major languages paired with our breadth of understanding of the unique and specialized vocabulary make us WC industry experts.

Reach out to us now to set up a workers’ compensation interpreter.

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.