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

In this special episode, we’re delving deep into the pressing challenges that automation engineers face daily and how our upcoming Automation Guild 2025 event is set to tackle these issues head-on.

Don't miss it register for Automation Guild now!

We’ll discuss fresh survey data from over 200 automation professionals and explore pain points like test maintenance headaches, complex environments, AI integration, and much more.

We also have some exciting sessions to preview, including techniques to scale tests without piling up technical debt, battling automation antipatterns, and leveraging AI for end-to-end testing. Plus, we’ll touch on critical career advice and the ever-important aspect of team buy-in and collaboration.

So get ready for an episode packed with practical insights and expert advice designed to help you succeed in your automation journey. Don’t miss out on this one—it’s going to be epic!

Support the show and also check out this episodes sponsors BrowserStack testing solutions.

Welcome to the TestGuild Automation Podcast! I'm Joe Colantonio, your host. In today's episode, we'll discuss the top automation testing trends for 2025.

Don't miss Automation Guild 2025: https://testguild.me/future25

Leveraging insights from our comprehensive surveys dating back to 2018 and combining them with ChatGPT's powerful analysis, we're uncovering the future of automation testing.

We'll explore groundbreaking concepts like agentic AI, AI-driven user behavior analysis, the rise of low-code/no-code tools, and the integration of testing with DevOps and SRE practices. Plus, we'll reveal why Python is the must-learn language for testers in 2025 and how tools like Playwright are growing in the new year.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the field, this episode is packed with valuable insights to keep you ahead of the curve. So stay tuned, and let's get into it!

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of Robot Framework with some exceptional guests: Marcus, Gerwin, Stacy, and Stavrola. We'll uncover the financial dynamics, organic growth, and the profound flexibility of Robot Framework that makes it stand out in the automation landscape. Our guests will share their firsthand experiences using Robot Framework for diverse testing needs, and we'll bust some common misconceptions about integrating it with tools like Selenium and Playwright.

You'll hear about the robust community support that keeps users engaged and excited, the ease of implementing custom keywords, and the seamless integration that Robot Framework offers without the hassle of stitching multiple technologies together.

We'll also give you a sneak peek into the upcoming RoboCon 2025 in Helsinki, an event packed with workshops, community-driven activities, and main conference days designed to inspire and educate.

🤖 Premier Robot Framework Conference 🇫🇮 In Helsinki (Feb 11-15) or Online (Mar 4-7) – Register Now!

Today, you get to listen in to a private Automation Guild monthly session led by Anna Royzman, Founder of A Quality Leadership Institute, Inc.

This episode is essential for decision-makers responsible for test automation solutions. It is also invaluable for stakeholders who rely on test automation results to make software release decisions or hire SDETs.

Discover the common misconceptions about test automation and discuss its challenges. Failure to address these challenges efficiently can result in significant financial losses, wasted time, and resource depletion.

Anna will share a guide to choosing the right automation tools to elevate your testing initiatives. This guide empowers teams to identify and implement test automation solutions that align with their unique requirements and deliver maximum value.

Key takeaways:

How to evaluate your product and system and pick the right choices for test automation
How to integrate the test automation into various stages of development
How to allocate resources efficiently and ensure the right fit and skills for people who work with AT

Today, we dive deep into how to advance your career in software testing.

One tool to help you with testing Journey: https://testguild.me/testmanagement1

We have two incredible guests with us: Nicola Lindgren and Vernon Richards, co-authors of the new book The Software Tester’s Journey.

Discover vital aspects of a software tester's career. We cover it all, from Nicola’s transition into platform management to Vernon’s focus on balancing technology, people, and business for career growth. They offer invaluable insights on job hunting versus networking, the benefits of building professional relationships, and the realities of going independent.

We also delve into the importance of developing transferable skills, the power of public speaking, and why articulating your value is crucial to job security. Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder, shift roles within your company, or venture into independent work, this episode has something for everyone.

Join us for a compelling conversation that promises to provide you with practical advice and strategies to enhance your career journey in software testing. And don't forget to check out their book, "The Software Tester’s Journey," for an even deeper dive into their expertise. Let’s get started!