How did I get into software testing field?

By coincidence. I was studying information and communications technology at a university of applied sciences, and before the last year of studying started it was time to look for a trainee position. After several applications sent, I got an interview for a trainee position in a CI/CD team at Nokia. There I spent my next year, first as a trainee and later as a bachelor’s thesis worker, developing test automation libraries. After the stint at Nokia I jumped straight on board to VALA, slightly before I even graduated from the UAS.

What kind of projects have you been working on?

I have mostly been in projects working on developing test automation for larger machines, such as elevators and port cranes. I find large machines and the embedded systems they’re controlled with fascinating and I’m glad I’ve been able to choose projects at VALA to cater to my interests.

What is your work day like?

I work from home most of the time, so my schedule is very flexible. I’m a bit of a night owl so it’s great that I get to influence my working hours so I can work mostly with a schedule that suits me the best.

What is the best thing about your job?

One of the best things at my current job is that I get to do interesting tasks, but even more important is the overall good vibe, where you feel like you are trusted as a professional to make good decisions regarding your work. This trust also brings on freedom and the possibility to influence your tasks and the frameworks they are done in.

How did you end up working at VALA?

I was scouting for a new job, just as the trainee job related to my studies was ending and I was about to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in engineering and information technology. I came across VALA’s website and got the impression that it would be a fun and relaxed place to work at, so I sent my application. I was pretty green when applying for jobs, which in many places was seen as a downside. But at VALA they rather saw the future potential in me, than just the past work history. Now I’ve been here for some years and I still think VALA is a wonderful place to work at, and so much more than just fun and relaxed.

What is the best thing about VALA?

VALA has a human- and community centric approach, which makes me feel valued as a professional and an individual, instead of feeling like we’re just here as cogs in a machine.

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