Translation Project Management: Duties, Competences and Training. What is the scenario like in Spain?

Abstract

With the introduction of new technologies and the rise of globalization, the translation industry has undergone significant transformation since the end of the 20th century. What was originally considered an individual and self-employed activity has evolved to meet the demands of the language services industry over the last two decades, resulting in a virtual working environment. It is within this evolving landscape that the role of the Translation Project Manager (PM) has emerged, offering an interesting alternative to students aspiring to diverge from the more traditional career paths linked to Translation and Interpreting (T&I). Based on an observational study of Spanish university curricula, this study aims to discuss the training that future PMs are receiving in regard to Translation Project Management (TPM), focusing on the training content (or lack thereof). The primary objective is to determine whether university training aligns with the demands of the labor market and whether future PMs are adequately prepared for their professional journey.