In this episode of the TestGuild Automation Podcast, we're diving into a top-rated session from the recent Automation Guild, where Robert Lukenbill explores the journey from being laid off to finding new opportunities.

Robert shares invaluable insights and personal experiences on how to build an effective support network and strategies to minimize unemployment periods. Throughout this enlightening discussion, Robert emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental fortitude, leveraging support systems, and actively seeking new paths in the job market.

Whether you're facing unemployment or preparing for the unexpected, this episode provides practical advice and inspiration to navigate career transitions confidently.

Test 3500+ devices & browsers with BrowserStack Live—start now! 🌐📱https://testguild.me/browserstacklive1

I want to share with you one of our most popular Test Guild webinars “From Manual QA to Automation Engineer Using AI” that took place a few months ago from Tal and Subnesh of BlingIO. BlinqIO is also our Platinum sponsor for our 2025 online Automation Guild taking place Feb 10-15th.

Don’t miss AutomationGuild25 register now: https://testguild.me/future25

Got big automation testing goals for 2025? But you’re not sure how to achieve them without creating hard to maintain automation? Learn What works from the brightest minds in Software Testing by attending Automation Guild 2025 which is only a week away (Feb 10-15) . That where you’ll learn how to apply AI to your work, the latest in functional and non-functional test automation, and strategies you can put to work right away. Secure your future by getting your tickets at testguild.com. I hope to see you there.

Listen in to discover:

How the role of QA is changing in the context of software development and what this means for career advancement.
Key skills needed to transition from manual QA to automation, including an understanding of AI tools.
Practical strategies for leveraging AI to improve test creation, management, and execution.

In today's episode, we'll explore my specially curated list of the top 10 must-attend software testing conferences and events for 2025.

See all testing conferences with dates and time: https://testguild.com/software-testing-conferences/

Whether you want to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of test automation, QA, and software testing, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.

We'll explore conferences focused on industry-leading tools like Playwright, Selenium, Appium, Cypress, and Robot Framework and events dedicated to security testing, QA leadership, and performance engineering. I'll share experiences, expert-led sessions, and real-world success stories from these remarkable gatherings. Plus, you'll get tips on how to make the most of your conference experience—from networking to taking structured notes.

Stay tuned until the end, when I'll reveal a no-brainer event you won't want to miss! This episode is a must-listen if you're ready to boost your testing knowledge and connect with like-minded professionals. Let's get started!

** For Bitrise users signing up on BrowserStack App Automate, grab your free upgrade to App Automate Device Cloud Plan here: https://testguild.me/bitriseuser

** For App Automate users signing up on Bitrise, grab your free credits here: https://testguild.me/AppAutomateUser

** BrowserStack Test Observability: Why Your Automation Tests Are Failing (Test Observability Can Help): https://youtu.be/1myqnQLnA7g