Will AI replace the test engineer?

Those who switched careers in 1985 out of fear of automation are facing the same question today as test automation specialists - only with AI instead of robots. The thesis: ChatGPT will not replace anyone, but it will certainly replace those who do not deal with it. From Prussian precision at the workbench to ISTQB certifications and community-driven learning labs, it is clear that software testing is less of a technical discipline than we thought - and more of an attitude.

Podcast Episode: Will AI replace the test engineer?

Rudi is an accomplished Agile and testing expert and takes us on his remarkable journey from carpenter to tester. He also talks about the skills and qualities that make successful testers. He deals a lot with artificial intelligence and explores the question of whether it has the potential to replace the test engineer. One of his core topics is “learning”. Which learning concepts and methods work well? How can we learn better on the job? He also likes to link this to his community activities. And of course, as an experienced tester, he has plenty of tips, insights and advice for anyone who, like him, is passionate about software quality.

“There was a similar question back in 1985: will there still be craftsmen in the future because the machines will do everything?” - Rudolf Grötz

Rudolf Grötz has been working in IT for more than 35 years and has been a passionate software tester since 2008. He works as an Agile Engineering Coach for “Test Automation” at Raiffeisen Bank International AG in Vienna and lives by the motto “Test automation is software development!”. In addition to various authoring activities, including for iX-Magazin & SQ-Magazin, he organizes the Agile (Test) Automation Meetup in Vienna with 1400+ members and also acts as a speaker at conferences such as Selenium Conf, Agile Tour Vienna, OOP & German Testing Day. He also passes on his knowledge in the form of online training for the Test Automation University, among others.

Highlights der Episode

• AI does not replace testers, but those who do not deal with AI.
• ISTQB Foundation Level is like learning to read - basic knowledge is essential for every tester.
• Careers don’t come from plans, but from curiosity and a willingness to get stuck in.
• Community work works: If nobody organizes something, do it yourself - 1500 members later.
• From carpenter to agile coach: Precision craftsmanship sharpens the eye for software quality.

How AI is redefining the role of the tester

Today’s topic is whether artificial intelligence (AI) can replace the role of the test engineer. Our guest, Rudolf “Rudi” Grötz, shares his extensive experience in software development and testing, his transitions between different IT roles and his current insights into the agile world as well as his thoughts on the future of testing in the age of AI.

The question of the future of testing

Today I asked a question that is on the minds of many in the IT industry: “Will AI replace the test engineer?” To get to the bottom of this question, I welcomed Rudolf “Rudi” Grötz, a well-known name in the Vienna test automation and agility community. With his experience in both traditional and agile development processes, Rudi was the ideal guest to shed light on this topic. His perspective is particularly valuable, not only because of his impressive career in IT, but also because of his extraordinary journey from a trained carpenter to an agile engineering coach.

From carpenter to technology visionary

Rudi’s career path is anything but ordinary. Originally trained as a carpenter, a television program about increasing automation sparked his interest in IT. A subsequent course on the basics of IT marked the beginning of his journey into the world of technology. Across various positions - from operator to developer to tester - Rudi has undergone a remarkable transformation. This diversity of experience gives him a unique perspective on testing and its evolution in the context of new technologies such as AI.

AI in focus: an opportunity or a threat for testers?

During our conversation, we dove deep into the topic of artificial intelligence. Rudi shared his views on how AI could impact the role of testers. He emphasized that while AI can automate certain tasks and thus make them easier, it will not necessarily replace testers. Rather, he sees AI as a tool that helps testers to work more efficiently. His conviction is that testers who engage with AI and learn to use it to their advantage can benefit from this technological wave.

Lifelong learning as the key to adaptability

A recurring theme in our conversation was the importance of lifelong learning. Rudi’s own career is a testament to his constant adaptability and willingness to learn new things. He particularly emphasized the importance of certifications such as the ISTQB Foundation Level for testers as the foundation of their expertise. He also encouraged them to always remain curious and follow current technological trends. This is essential in order to survive in a rapidly changing industry such as the IT sector.

Die Community als Inspirationsquelle

In addition to his professional career, Rudi is passionately involved in the testing community. He founded the Testautomation Meetup in Vienna and currently leads two Meetup groups focusing on agile engineering practices. These platforms offer opportunities to share knowledge and experience and to network. Rudi’s commitment clearly shows that exchanging ideas with like-minded people plays an important role in personal and professional development.

Shaping the future

At the end of our conversation, Rudi reflected on how important it is to be open to change and to actively work on your own development. His story is an inspiration to push boundaries and not be limited by traditional career paths. In a time full of technological advances, it is crucial to always look ahead and acquire skills that will help us actively shape the future of testing - and beyond.