Kala Mata is a nationally certified American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter and the founder of Winkelmann Interpreting Services, Inc. With over a decade of professional experience, they have dedicated their career to fostering clear, respectful, and equitable communication between Deaf, DeafBlind, and hearing communities.
Their journey with ASL began in 2004 and quickly evolved into a lifelong passion for accessibility and inclusion. After completing studies at Lamar University and Lone Star College, they began interpreting professionally in 2011. They hold BEI certifications (Basic – 2014, Advanced – 2015, Medical – 2019) and RID NIC certification (2025).
Guided by the principles of language justice, they lead Winkelmann Interpreting Services with a commitment to communication equity, cultural competency, and professional excellence. Their areas of specialization include medical, mental health, conference, educational, technical, Deaf-Blind, and legal interpreting, delivered both in-person and through Video Remote Interpreting (VRI).
Through their leadership, they continue to advance the field of interpreting by promoting language access, supporting Interpreters’ professional growth, and ensuring that all communities are seen, heard, and understood.