Introducing TWIQ hosts with AI
23 Oct 2026
In this moment:
Demi Van Malcot
Shawn Vernier
Had to have a play based on something said in TWiQ today on AI introducing the hosts. So here it is 😂
Shawn Vernier
"Today we're joined by Shawn Vernier, a Quality Engineer, community leader, and passionate advocate for context-driven quality. Many of you will know Shawn through the Ministry of Testing community, where he's become a highly respected contributor, Chapter Lead, podcast participant, mentor, speaker, and prolific voice in conversations about quality engineering and testing. His personal philosophy, 'The answer to quality is context,' has become something of a hallmark of his approach to the craft.
Shawn Vernier
"Today we're joined by Shawn Vernier, a Quality Engineer, community leader, and passionate advocate for context-driven quality. Many of you will know Shawn through the Ministry of Testing community, where he's become a highly respected contributor, Chapter Lead, podcast participant, mentor, speaker, and prolific voice in conversations about quality engineering and testing. His personal philosophy, 'The answer to quality is context,' has become something of a hallmark of his approach to the craft.
With a background that spans software development, test automation, and quality advocacy, Shawn brings a holistic perspective on how teams build confidence in their products. He's known for challenging conventional thinking around testing, exploring topics ranging from epistemology and quality culture to automation strategy and the evolving role of AI in software delivery.
Whether he's mentoring others, contributing to the MoTaverse, leading community discussions, or helping organizations rethink their approach to quality, Shawn consistently encourages us to look beyond tools and processes and focus on understanding context, risk, and value. Shawn, welcome to the podcast."
Demi Van Malcot
"Today's guest is Demi Van Malcot, a test engineer, test lead, quality manager, and one of the most active and recognizable contributors in the Ministry of Testing community. What makes Demi's story particularly inspiring is how quickly she's embraced the world of quality. After entering software testing in 2023, she immersed herself in learning, community participation, public speaking, and leadership, rapidly progressing into test leadership and quality management roles.
Alongside her day job, Demi has become a passionate advocate for both testing and AI, serving as a community lead in those areas within her organization while also making a significant impact across the wider testing community. Through co-hosting Ministry of Testing shows, writing articles, speaking at events, and encouraging others to contribute, she's become a strong voice for continuous learning and quality-focused leadership.
Before software testing, Demi worked as a baker, a career change that reflects her curiosity and desire to keep learning and growing. That same enthusiasm continues to fuel her work today as she explores what it means to lead with quality and help teams build better products and stronger quality cultures. Demi, it's a pleasure to have you with us."
Demi Van Malcot
"Today's guest is Demi Van Malcot, a test engineer, test lead, quality manager, and one of the most active and recognizable contributors in the Ministry of Testing community. What makes Demi's story particularly inspiring is how quickly she's embraced the world of quality. After entering software testing in 2023, she immersed herself in learning, community participation, public speaking, and leadership, rapidly progressing into test leadership and quality management roles.
Alongside her day job, Demi has become a passionate advocate for both testing and AI, serving as a community lead in those areas within her organization while also making a significant impact across the wider testing community. Through co-hosting Ministry of Testing shows, writing articles, speaking at events, and encouraging others to contribute, she's become a strong voice for continuous learning and quality-focused leadership.
Before software testing, Demi worked as a baker, a career change that reflects her curiosity and desire to keep learning and growing. That same enthusiasm continues to fuel her work today as she explores what it means to lead with quality and help teams build better products and stronger quality cultures. Demi, it's a pleasure to have you with us."
Gary Hawkes
Head of Engineering
He/Him
Head of Engineering who came from QE. Admirer of all humans (with a special affinity for testers). I love to bring out the best in people and help them grow. I have a very tactical view of delivery and love working to find the sweet spot so that processes are a balance between effort and value. Music nut.
Open To
Write
Mentor
Podcasting
CV Reviews
Sign in
to comment
With servers in >250 cities around the world, check your site for localization problems, broken GDPR banners, etc.
Explore MoT
Complex workflows, flaky tests, fragmented tools, and AI-driven pressure are making it harder for QA teams to keep up.
Boost your career in software testing with the MoT Software Testing Essentials Certificate. Learn essential skills, from basic testing techniques to advanced risk analysis, crafted by industry experts.
Debrief the week in Quality via a community radio show hosted by Simon Tomes and members of the community