Olga Koby’s Journey in Software QA and Inclusivity

In our highly connected world, even big players like 微软 and CrowdStrike can pause the global economy due to a lack of proper testing before the major releases. This reminds us all just how important Software Quality Assurance is.

Meet Olga Koby , a dedicated and skilled Software Quality Assurance Engineer.?

Olga's journey into the tech industry is a testament to her passion, resilience, and commitment to continuous learning.?

In a detailed interview, she shared insights into her journey, accomplishments, and advice for aspiring women in the industry.

Liliya: What kind of work do you do in tech? What is your role?

Olga: Software Tester

Liliya: What are your aspirations?

Olga: I aspire to become a leading expert in software quality assurance. I aim to continuously strengthen my current skills and acquire new ones, keeping up with evolving technologies and emerging trends in the industry. My goal is to be recognized as a strong professional who consistently delivers high-quality work and contributes to the advancement of the field.

Liliya: Can you share your journey into the tech industry? What or who inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

Olga: I've always had a passion for technology. From the moment I got my first personal computer, I was eager to learn more. Initially, I graduated as a graphic designer, but I was always fascinated by the software development process and the intricate details behind it.?

The technology itself inspired me—it’s fast-paced and constantly evolving. I wanted to stay at the forefront of these advancements, so I found a way to transition into software development from my background in graphic design.?

I discovered a course in software quality assurance, completed it, and then took a few automation courses. This paved the way for my first job in the field, and I’ve been growing ever since.

Liliya: What are some of the accomplishments you're most proud of in your career?

Olga: In my career in software quality assurance, I’m most proud of several accomplishments.?

• Firstly, I was able to quickly learn and graduate from a few intense programs, which laid a strong foundation for my career.?
• Secondly, I mastered test automation, which has significantly improved my efficiency and effectiveness in ensuring software quality.
• Additionally, I've successfully implemented best practices in testing processes, contributed to the improvement of team workflows, and consistently delivered high-quality results under tight deadlines.?

These achievements have not only advanced my skills but also positively impacted the projects and teams I've worked with.

Liliya: How do you balance the demands of a high-pressure tech job with your personal life?

Olga: I balance the demands of a high-pressure tech job with my personal life by setting clear priorities. I make sure to establish boundaries between work and personal time, allowing me to focus on what's important in each area.?

Time management is crucial; I plan my day efficiently to ensure I meet deadlines without compromising on personal activities. Additionally, I prioritize self-care and relaxation to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This approach helps me stay productive and motivated both at work and in my personal life.

Liliya: What challenges have you faced as a woman in tech, and how have you overcome them?

Olga: As a woman in tech, I’ve faced a few challenges, including being in environments where I was one of the few women on the team. At times, this meant having to prove my expertise and capability more than my male counterparts.?

To overcome these challenges, I focused on continuously enhancing my skills and staying current with industry trends, ensuring my work speaks for itself. I also sought out supportive networks and mentors within the tech community, which provided valuable guidance and encouragement.

Additionally, I made it a point to advocate for myself and other women in tech, promoting a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Liliya: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the tech industry?

Olga: My advice to young women aspiring to enter the tech industry is to believe in your abilities and stay curious. Pursue continuous learning and don’t hesitate to seek out new challenges.?

Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who can offer guidance and encouragement. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your ideas—your perspective is valuable.?

Additionally, be resilient and persistent; the tech industry can be demanding, but with determination and hard work, you can achieve your goals. Remember, diversity drives innovation, and your contributions can make a significant impact.

Liliya: How can men in the tech industry be allies to women and underrepresented groups?

Olga: Men in the tech industry can be allies by promoting inclusivity, valuing diverse perspectives, and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. They should mentor and sponsor women and underrepresented groups, advocate for their advancement, and create opportunities for growth.?

Challenging biases and supporting a culture of respect and equality are also crucial. By being proactive and standing up against inequity, men can help create a more inclusive tech environment.

Liliya: What emerging technologies or trends are you most excited about and why?

Olga: I'm most excited about AI and machine learning because of their potential to transform various industries through automation and data-driven insights. Additionally, advancements in blockchain technology promise to revolutionize data security and transparency.?

The development of 5G and its applications in IoT are also exciting, as they will enable faster, more reliable connections, driving innovation in smart cities and autonomous vehicles. These technologies are paving the way for a more connected and efficient future, and I'm eager to see their impact unfold.

A question from Angie Chang who was recognized in Women in Tech prior. You can read her journey here .

Angie: What are invisible challenges (for example, Autism, ADHD, mood disorder, depression, anxiety, etc.) you or your family members overcome, and what is your advice for others??

Olga: We all face challenges, diagnosed or not. My advice to others is never to face these challenges alone. Always seek support from your family, friends, and your community. Having a strong support system can make a world of difference.

Liliya: What else would you like the readers to know about you?

Olga: I believe in fostering inclusivity and supporting the new generation of women in tech through mentorship and advocacy. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring art, history, and science, and traveling to gain new perspectives that inspire my professional and personal development.

Conclusion

Olga's journey in Software Quality Assurance is a remarkable example of determination, continuous growth, and the power of community support. Her accomplishments in QA and her commitment to fostering inclusivity serve as an inspiration to many.?

By sharing her experiences and insights, Olga not only highlights the challenges faced by women in tech but also offers a roadmap for overcoming them.?

Her story encourages us to strive for excellence, support one another, remain curious and resilient in the face of challenges, test our software applications thoroughly, and practice a canary progressive deployment for critical updates to prevent global outages.?