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Interpretation

is a purposeful approach to communication that facilitates meaningful, relevant, and inclusive experiences that deepen understanding, broaden perspectives, and inspire engagement with the world around us.

               National Association for Interpretation

About

Interpreters connect visitors to important natural, cultural, and historical resources at parks, nature centers, historical sites, aquariums, zoos, and anywhere that people come to learn about places. The National Association for Interpretation (NAI) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting interpreters with resources for continuing education, professional development, and industry-recognized certifications. With a national network of cultural, natural, and historical  interpreters, NAI offers a comprehensive range of membership benefits designed to enhance career growth and foster meaningful connections. Members enjoy exclusive access to events, career opportunities, publications, scholarships, and more. The NAI National Conference, held annually in the United States, typically attracts around 800 participants, while the NAI International Conference is hosted at various international locations every other spring, offering unique global networking opportunities.

   

Who Are Interpreters?

 

   

Membership

Join our professional association, and gain access to exclusive benefits.

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Professional Development

Explore our professional development and education opportunities.

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Conferences

Engage with fellow interpreters at NAI's national and international conferences.

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  • 5,218 Members
  • 826 Certified Professionals
  • 19,299 Certificate Holders

Membership

Get access to a global network of cultural, natural, and historical interpreters at great value. Choose from various membership options best suited for you!

Exclusive Access to the NAI Member Area

Explore the Interpreter's Network, NAI's Career Center, and the Mentor Match Program.

Networking and Professional Development Opportunities

Find your regional NAI community, receive discounts on certifications and trainings, and get access to scholarships and grants.

Online Publications and Interpretation Content

Automatically subscribed to NAI's magazine, Legacy and discounts on InterpPress book titles.

Learn More about NAI's Membership

Events & Announcements

Professional Awards

Nominations now open
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New Legacy Issue!

Preview the May/June Legacy Issue
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Legacy en español

Edición 2025
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Watch Amplifying Voices

Varying Perspectives from Black and Brown Interpreters
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"Becoming a member of NAI is the best thing I have ever done for my professional career. Collaborating with other interpreters, sharing ideas and passion for our profession and how we can continue to see it grow and maintain its relevance - this is what NAI provides. Fostering and building and growing from the global community of Interpreters around the world helps remind me that my profession and my job expands way beyond the borders of my park."

—Erin Gates

Conferences

Oakland, California
 November 10-13, 2026
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Latest Episode

Allie Elliott is an interpreter based in Midland, Michigan who brings together her background in biology and passion for people to create meaningful connections with the natural world. She works at the Chippewa Nature Center as an Interpretive Naturalist / Assistant Camp Director, where she focuses on youth programming and hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity, stewardship, and belonging in the outdoors. With a special interest in Michigan’s wetland ecosystems, Allie strives to make science accessible, engaging, and relevant for all audiences.

Support NAI

Our community of interpreters faces unprecedented challenges. From budget cuts and hiring freezes to increasing demands on fewer staff, interpreters everywhere are feeling the strain. Your donation ensures that, even in difficult times, interpreters have the resources, training, and support they need to inspire millions of people each year.

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