OSU-OKC Interpreter Training Program builds pathways for skilled professionals

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

The need for American Sign Language interpreters is growing, both in the educational and private sectors. 

Through its Interpreter Training Program, Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City is working to meet that critical need: preparing qualified interpreters to serve communities statewide.

Jimmy Mitchell, department head of OSU-OKC’s Interpreter Training Program, said the program is focused on equipping students with the skills and ethics necessary to succeed in the workforce. 

“We are very serious about developing qualified and skilled interpreters in every possible way that we can to make sure that they are ready for the workforce,” Mitchell said through an interpreter.

The program offers American Sign Language courses taught by qualified instructors, as well as interpreting classes led by nationally certified interpreters. Adjunct faculty bring real-world experience to the classroom, teaching both technical skills and professional ethics. Students also gain hands-on experience through internships and community projects coordinated by Mitchell.

Mitchell’s own path to interpreter education began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he frequently interpreted at emergency press conferences for Gov. Kevin Stitt. That experience sparked a deeper interest in the interpreting community. 

Previously a vocational rehabilitation counselor, Mitchell had seen firsthand the challenges clients faced when interpreters were not a good match. 

“I knew that we had interpreting problems in the state of Oklahoma,” he said. “After COVID, I realized teaching was more of my calling.”

Mitchell later taught at OSU-Stillwater before joining OSU-OKC as department head three years ago. Since then, he has worked to expand the program’s reach and strengthen its ties to the community. 

“I send interns out to the community to work,” he said. “Whatever we need, if we need an intern for observation or hands up, then I coordinate all of that.”

Looking ahead, Mitchell envisions developing microcredentials in specialized areas such as medical, educational and legal interpreting. He also hopes to establish a bachelor’s degree program at OSU-OKC, similar to the one offered at OSU-Stillwater, to give local students more opportunities to advance their education. 

“I would love to set up a program here for the local students who want to have a bachelor’s degree,” he said.

Partnerships with community organizations and workforce initiatives are also part of his vision for growth. 

“More partnerships with the community and different organizations and the workforce would help develop the program more,” Mitchell said.