Software Test Engineer Review

Working on a client project (currently from home) performance load testing. This includes running the tests, analysing results, writing reports, updating Jira tickets and working with the team. I also get involved with testing the systems emulator. I join daily stand ups with my team members where we discuss daily activities and issues or problems anyone may have faced. Solutions can often be discussed here however generally another session is arranged to work on fixing issues.

During my time on the apprenticeship program I have been able to achieve the ISTQB Foundation and Agile extension certificates. I also have attended a number of courses to help develop my skills and understanding. IBM provide some internal courses which target client interactions and consulting. These helped to develop my communication skills and public speaking. Within my role I have learnt how to run tests, how to analyse results and work in a test team.

I enjoy the program very much as it is a good balance between work and assignments. I am able to spend the majority of my time working on real client tasks making a difference. My coach from the apprenticeship provider is great at setting achievable tasks which all count towards my overall criteria and completion. I am able to meet lots of new people, work in a variety of surroundings and learn many new skills

When first joining you have an initail induction to welcome you to IBM and teach you the basics. From a software test perspective, you then attend some courses such as the ISTQB and work on client sites to complete real work learning the skills on the job. Working with your task manager, they will help set tasks for you to complete, or partner you with somebody more experienced who you can shadow and start to learn the role.

IBM is very supportive. Whether that is from your manager, HR, your mentor or buddy (who you are set up with when you start at IBM), everyone is there to help and support you. The teams are often very friendly and there to teach you and give you the guidance. However the role can be demanding and require you to learn some skills for yourself. This may include completing preset learning tasks/courses or self study learning.

I have monthly calls with my coach from my training provider to review previously set tasks and set new tasks. However if I have any questions or concerns between meetings I am able to contact them and discuss this. There is plenty of resources available if you need support. My coach is very good at setting targets that achieve the criteria which is great for the overall completion of the apprenticeship qualification. I am happy with the level of support I receive.

As the majority of the learning is working on client site and completing actual tasks, the apprenticeship provider themselves don't teach very much. However the courses which are part of the program, and the certifications you acheive along with them, help teach most of the theory and the basics of testing. How much you use the theory learnt is role dependent, however I have found the information learnt from courses have helped in my role.

At IBM there are many activities you can get involved in, whether it be internal, or within your project. There are many events you can attend and take part in, socials either in person (when that is possible) or virtually. When working on client site, you often after work go for food and drinks with collegues. This also can happen when attending courses. There are office parties (client and internal) many socials within many teams always being arranged.

Yes

IBM is a great company to work because they provide great benefits, great working environment and so much opportunitity to develop your career. You can learn so many skills, meet great people whilst developing your network, experience many industries and even travel. I enjoy the work/life balance, and how IBM respect any personal commitments or disruptions you may have. The environment is face paced and full of opportunity to learn new skills, tools and technologies.

When applying to IBM be yourself and honest. IBM hire you for you and not because you fit a specific model. If you are determined to learn, hard working and enjoy solving problems, IBM is a great place to work. The assessment centres are there to identify who is right for the job so be creative, unique and stand out. Also remember there is no stupid question, often someone else is thinking the same thing.