News & Updates Articles

7/10/2012: Information Technology Specialists Needed

Twenty-six years ago this summer, our family moved to Suriname, South America. We were first-term missionaries heading to our overseas assignment.

We had sold the few salable things we owned and given away the rest. Everything we expected to need for the next four years fit into two wooden crates. Among the essentials was our first computer—a Commodore 64.

Even back then, the purpose for having a computer was to improve communications. It dramatically sped the process of typing letters to family and friends back home in the U.S.

Of course after they were typed, the mail still required about three weeks to reach its destination, but that seemed reasonable at the time. We really had no other option.

The world has changed a bit since then.

Today computers are essential tools for Bible translation. They are the workbench, tool chest, and telephone for translation teams. Specialized programs are used for drafting, checking, and storing Scripture and Bible resources. Satellite modems enable communication and collaboration for teams sometimes separated by thousands of miles.

Three of our current highest-priority opportunities to support Bible translation in Africa are for information technology specialists in Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Nigeria.

We are looking for people with hardware, software, and network experience to train and mentor local technicians to meet the needs of remote Bible translation teams.

Our goal is to build a network of local technicians that, in the decade ahead, will support the start of Scripture translations in over 800 African languages still without the Scriptures.

If you, or someone you know, would like more information on these service opportunities, just reply to web@wycliffeassociates.org or call Tim Coleman at 1-800-THE WORD (800-843-9673). Tim can tell you more about each of these opportunities, the local teams, and the impact on Bible translation.

If information technology isn’t your specialty, would you help us by forwarding this to anyone you know who might be able to network with us to find the right people for these opportunities?

Thank you for your interest and support for getting God’s Word to every nation!

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