Let's start by saying that the perception of the tech industry being unreachable for people with backgrounds outside of tech, is changing at a fast pace.
Nowadays, many people decide to leverage the skills gained from their previous work experiences and choose to be successful in the digital world.
In this article, we'll talk about the switch from Quality Engineer to QA Software Testing.
Many people are attempting to switch careers towards the software industry. This career change won't come easily, but it certainly may be the best choice you'll make when it comes to your professional development.
Are you ready to take the jump?
Career Changes and Possibilities in North Macedonia. The future is digital. This is something we hear, read, and quite frankly are surrounded by daily. This is what attracts the attention of many young professionals, which now more than ever are making the switch in their careers and are turning digital.
For example, if you studied Biochemistry there are great opportunities in the industries such as pharmaceuticals, where products and processes require a high level of Quality Assurance and Quality Control.
Looks like Quality Assurance Software Testing is something that's developing with full steam when thinking about the opportunities that we have in North Macedonia.
Sure, everything depends on where you want to develop your career, but choosing the digital world is something most young people see as a better opportunity. And they might be right.
So before thinking of changing careers, what's the first thing that you should do?
It's the research and finding out what's the situation on the job market.
One of these people is Ana Markovska, who's done her "homework" and has a clear idea of what the field is about. She has embraced the fact that changing from standard QA/QC Engineer to QA Software Tester can bring better professional development, especially if we consider the situation in our country.
Having the needed analytical thinking, and numerous other soft and technical skills acquired through her 2 years of experience as a Quality Engineer, she's chosen to switch from “manual” to digital.
Understanding the concepts of software testing and how the Agile methodologies work in the product development and the Quality cycle is something Ana is already familiar with. But, of course, she's open to upgrading her skills which will in time lead her to her ultimate goal of becoming a scrum master.
Quality Engineer as a Profession vs. QA Software Tester
Quality engineers are professionals who combine analysis with advanced testing to ensure a reliable output. Main duties include setting up and conducting tests, making alterations or improvements to products before their release. These people are analyzing test data to identify errors, acquire parameters and engage in product reviews to gain feedback.
Putting all of this in the digital world, from an aspect of testing software, gives you the modernized version of QA professionals, the QA Software testers.
Software Testing is a process of checking a computer system/program to decide whether it meets the defined specifications and delivers the aspired results. Software Testing is necessary to provide a quality product without any bug or concern.
Why do people decide to switch?
Well, it's simple. The future does not look bright, especially in our country. Looks like there is no chance for progress in the factory sectors, and no real chance for upgrading and learning. The first piece of advice would be to learn as much as possible and don't get discouraged. Just like Ana's example, the first choice to many people is to complete a certified academy that would be followed by an internship and then ultimately, finding work in the digital world and the world of QA Software.
You should mold yourself into a digital professional. The first step is taking the initiative!
The important thing is that if you have some key skills like organizational ability, analytical and critical thinking, you can interpret them into almost any career, especially the digital ones.
Let's Piece It All Together
There are a lot of factors that have to come together which make Ana's decision perfect. The odds are in her favor. This can be seen basically by looking at job openings, market situation, the timing, the demand, and finally, Ana's background.
Based on the fact that Ana was always good at mathematics and logic, deciding on a switch from QA/QC Engineer, to Software Tester can open up many new opportunities for professional growth.
It is "the same thing" but for a different industry. These professions may be considered as something similar, and yet different but close enough to modern digitalization and development.
Final Conclusion
Technological advancement has presented increased opportunities for people in different domains because it is relatively easy for people to shift from one field to another one if they have the right set of skills.
A Quality Engineer, possessing all of the skills needed for quality control can make the transition easier, by just focusing on the digital aspect and understanding how the skills can be used and upgraded through the years.
The road will not be too difficult, especially with Ana's previous experience, but her dedication and effort are more than welcomed when it comes to achieving her goals.