A Spectrum of Difference: Creating EPIC Software Testers - Paul Seaman & Lee Hawkins

Description:

We have been lucky enough to work with a not-for-profit organization called EPIC Recruit Assist to offer software testing training to a group of young adults on the autism spectrum, through a new initiative known as the “EPIC TestAbility Academy”.

In this talk, we will describe:

• What is the autism spectrum and why it aligns with software testing
• How this relationship came about
• Why it is important to seek opportunities that drive diversity
• Key relationships, shared goals and building the vision
• The importance of communication
• Building a balanced programme
• Preparation that was required to get the programme off the ground
• Lessons learned in finding participants
• Lessons learned delivering the training
• The outcomes for the candidates on completion of the programme.

Takeaways:

• What autism is and how those with autism can be particularly suited to IT work.
• Why you should think about reaching out and helping to grow the IT community.
• An insight into how you can go about getting a program up and running and the problems you might encounter.