9th Annual Women in Tech Month

Every May, we take a moment to celebrate Women in Tech and highlight some of the outstanding members of Applause’s global testing community. The experts we profiled this year shared personal and professional stories from around the globe – educating, entertaining and inspiring us in countless ways. Despite their range of expertise and diverse experiences, they have a few things in common. Below are our favorite excerpts from the women we interviewed.

They’re passionate about technology.

“My interest in the tech industry began way back when I was in 10th grade. I started working as a freelance tester with different companies and was employed before even graduating! I love how technology changes every now and then, and there’s literally so much to learn every day!!!”
Aishwarya V., Community Manager, India

“Testing allows me to discover new products (sometimes before everybody else) I wouldn’t know about any other way, or, on the contrary, I sometimes work on a product/brand I already know and love and it’s exciting to help improve it. Playing a part in product development actually brings me a lot of satisfaction.”
Alisson M., Test Engineer I, France

“I always loved working with data and owning projects. I like to think big and innovate – that’s why I love to work in Accessibility Ops ???? There are so many new methodologies, techniques, frameworks and tools to use to help me grow professionally. There are so many smart people working in tech, it is so diverse, you can learn so much!”
Anna G., Accessibility Operations Manager, United States

“My interest in the tech industry was sparked at a young age through my fascination with computers. I vividly recall the excitement of building my first website back in middle school, which ignited my curiosity and passion for all things tech. This experience opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of technology and inspired me to pursue a career where I could continue to explore and innovate in this dynamic field.”
Jawairia N., Quality Assurance Analyst, United States

“Initially, I had considered a career in medicine, but I soon realized that my passion didn’t lie in med school but in the limitless potential and challenges offered by the tech world. Switching to a career in technology felt like the most natural and exciting step for me – it was a field where I could continuously feed my curiosity and innovate. This leap into tech has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my life.”
Nancy D., Solution Delivery Manager, United States

They deliver value to our enterprise customers.

“…the department works as a well-oiled machine. One major success is the cycle launch time within my team. Our improvements saw cycle launch time dropping from 2-3 weeks’ lead time to just 1-2 days!”
Anna G., Accessibility Operations Manager, United States

“I love the impact and insight the [Applause] community provides to our customers. Our testers are impacting how emerging technologies, new products and features are being rolled out into the hands of users. That is incredibly special.”
Heather, SVP of Corporate Strategy & Development, United States

“I’m dedicated to ensuring the quality and functionality of software products prior to their market release… I actively collaborate with developers, product managers and stakeholders to thoroughly understand project goals and requirements. Subsequently, armed with a clear project scope, I focus on executing test cases, identifying bugs and providing feedback to enhance software quality.”
Jawairia N., Quality Assurance Analyst, United States

“A pivotal aspect of my role is delivering valuable insights to our clients – insights that are transformative and unique to their operations. This makes my job incredibly fulfilling as it blends strategic oversight with relational dynamics. It’s not just about managing projects; it’s about fostering relationships.”
Nancy D., Solution Delivery Manager, United States

They’ll work tirelessly to solve any problem.

“Although my full-time work as a CM keeps me busy throughout the day, the qualities of a tester still run deep in my veins and will never fade away. I often find myself spontaneously testing websites that aren’t even part of my assigned projects. For instance, I enjoy testing apps while I’m shopping for clothes. I’m certain that many testers here can relate to my experiences!”
Aishwarya V., Community Manager, India

“I am tenacious: I can spend an entire night trying to solve a problem/work on something and totally lose track of time.”
Alisson M., Test Engineer I, France

“Identifying high-quality bugs not only demonstrates my proficiency in software testing but also underscores my commitment to ensuring the utmost quality and functionality of the products I work on. Moreover, my efforts in facilitating smooth project processes and releases highlight my dedication to collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, all of which are essential for delivering successful outcomes in the fast-paced tech industry.”
Jawairia N,. Quality Assurance Analyst, United States

“On any given day, I might find myself acting as an SDM, a psychologist, or even just a friend, depending on what our clients need most at that moment.”
Nancy D., Solution Delivery Manager, United States

Diverse backgrounds provide perspective.

“…how cool is the fact that people from across the globe come together to share their thoughts, get to interact, collaborate, learn from each other, and support one another in their testing endeavors within the [Applause] community. I have friends all around the world, and I credit Applause for fostering such connections!”
Aishwarya V., Community Manager, India

“The [Applause] community is powerful because it’s composed of many talents/profiles coming from everywhere, with their culture/backgrounds/vision. On every [test] cycle we meet different people… When I was invited to my first cycles, I studied a lot of the already reported issues of these coworkers from all over the world.”
Alisson M., Test Engineer I, France

“There is always something new going on, and every day brings interesting tasks that don’t turn work into a routine. The diverse array of fascinating individuals here provides endless opportunities for learning and growth.”
Anna P., Test Engineer I, Germany

“I think the best thing companies in tech can do is to help promote STEM and offer opportunities to underrepresented communities. Applause and uTest are really good at giving opportunities through the community or through our intern programs that support diversity and inclusivity… I want to continue to see more and more women advance across organizations. I think we’re starting to see that now – and I feel like it will (and hope it will) only get better with the up-and-coming generations.”
Heather, SVP of Corporate Strategy & Development, United States

“Being part of the [Applause] community fosters a sense of collaboration and camaraderie, where testers from diverse backgrounds come together to share knowledge, solve challenges and contribute to the success of projects worldwide.”
Jawairia N,. Quality Assurance Analyst, United States

Technology isn’t their only passion.

“I am a mom of an almost 3-year-old daughter, which keeps teaching me patience every day :)… I love learning languages, I’m currently learning my fifth one – Spanish – and I’m happy to practice it with our Spanish-speaking colleagues once in a while… I have been snowboarding for about 10 years now and I am pretty good at it. I am also a huge Harry Potter fan.”
Anna G., Accessibility Operations Manager, United States

“Currently, I engage in volunteer work, assisting refugees from Ukraine within Germany. My tasks include translations, document completion, offering everyday support and even providing German language instruction… I’m a big Harry Potter fan. Yes, of course, I have Hogwarts house scarves (I knitted them myself), wands, and my son’s middle name is Severus in honor of Professor Snape… I like to make beautiful things. I love painting, knitting and cooking for my family. Now I have a new project: we bought an old house in the mountains, which we need to turn into a dream house :)”
Anna P., Test Engineer I, Germany

“I am a mom of two daughters – 3 years old and 4 months old… I love watching cooking shows – everything from ‘Beat Bobby Flay’ to ‘The Great British Baking Show’ – but don’t actually like to cook… I balance my job, spending time with my family, my friends and also getting time to myself!”
Heather, SVP of Corporate Strategy & Development, United States

“I have a passion for baking and decorating cakes! I would confidently say that I’m an expert at baking and cake decorating. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills in making custom cakes that not only taste delicious but also visually impress. Whether it’s crafting intricate designs for birthday cakes or adding creative flair to cupcakes, I thoroughly enjoy the artistry and precision that goes into each confection. From choosing the perfect flavors and ingredients to meticulously decorating with fondant, frosting and edible embellishments, I take pride in creating memorable treats that bring joy to special occasions.”
Jawairia N., Quality Assurance Analyst, United States

“Traveling is a big part of my life; I’ve visited five out of the seven continents so far. I’m especially thrilled about an upcoming cruise to Antarctica later this year, which will tick off the sixth continent on my list.”
Nancy D., Solution Delivery Manager, United States

Thanks to the participants and all the Women in Tech breaking barriers, advancing technology and inspiring the next generation of innovators worldwide. Visit applause.com to learn more about our global community, and all that we do to ensure technology works, and works well, for everyone, everywhere.

About Applause
Applause is the worldwide leader in enabling digital quality, providing a comprehensive approach that empowers the world’s greatest brands to deliver exceptional products, at the speed and scale of life. uTest is the testing community that powers Applause’s testing.