Aaron Madlon-Kay

Japanese-English Translator & Localization Technology Expert

Profile

Software localization professional with native English, near-native Japanese, and conversational Mandarin Chinese ability. Strong experience in game localization and translation, with a special interest in tools and workflow development. Programming experience in Java and Python.

Skills

Translation

Broad experience in Japanese-English translation with expertise in video games, IT/technology, software/programming, and physics/natural science.

Localization

Project management (J-E & E-FIGS) and workflow development, including CAT tools, repository software, and standards-based data exchange (TMX, XLIFF).

Programming

Expertise in developing custom toolsets for localization workflows, and small desktop applications.

Technical

  • Java
  • Python
  • PHP
  • Git
  • Subversion
  • Perforce
  • XML
  • XSLT
  • TMX

Experience

Havok

Technical Translator

July 2011–Present

Building and mantaining in-house localization infrastructure and toolchain, involving programming (Python, Bash, Java) and source control (Perforce). Translating technical documentation (XML, HTML, C++ headers, LaTeX, Word docs, etc.) from English into Japanese. Localizing the company website (http://www.havok.com/jp/).

TECMO KOEI GAMES Co., Ltd.

Localization Project Manager

August 2008–March 2011

I completely revamped the localization process at Tecmo Koei, introducing a modern workflow based on CAT tools, repository software, and custom utilities for text manipulation, quality checking and task automation. The custom utilities I developed myself in PHP.

Main duties:
Preparing Japanese games to be sold overseas—translating in-game text, manuals, planning docs, technical docs, etc. into English; managing outsourced translation into other languages; game testing and bug reporting; submissions to publishers and age rating agencies, etc.

Worked on:
Dynasty Warriors 7
Dynasty Warriors 6: Empires
Samurai Warriors 3
Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage
Dead or Alive: Paradise
Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2
Romance of the Three Kingdoms Touch 1 & 2

Town of Ikata (JET Program)

Coordinator for International Relations

August 2006–August 2008

As a JET Programme CIR I helped coordinate and execute the town's yearly exchange program with its sister city, Red Wing, USA. Other duties included:
- Researching and producing English information about Ikata,
- translating and interpreting between Japanese and English,
- authoring and maintaining the town's English website,
- chaperoning and guiding visitors from the US, Brazil, etc.,
- planning and implementing cultural exchange events, and
- teaching English to high school, elementary school, and preschool children.

Education

University of Wisconsin—Madison

Dual Major, Physics and Japanese — 3.83 GPA