Why should software testers be part of the community programs?

Software Testers are the quality ambassadors of the projects.

In this growing technology-based world, many tools and websites are launched to make software accessible to everyone. In this mission, many join hands and strive to deliver the solutions for the possible problem statements. Generally, software engineers are required to learn those tools and master them gradually. Some applications outperform expectations and they are promoted and used by millions of users based on usage, need, and pricing.

Software Testers are called “Gate Keepers”, and they constantly keep learning new tools and technologies to serve the purpose better. Based on the project tech stack they are upgrading themselves. They are in the never-ending learning process. Many factors could help them to scale faster and learn. A lot of free tutorials, YouTube videos, Paid course platforms (like Udemy, Pluralsight, etc.), and Blogs, etc. are available today. Also, the Communities play an important role in helping and uplifting the testers.

Many organizations recognized the significance of marketing, and there are tons of methods for getting their products to the right people. One such important way of connecting with the community is through “Ambassadorship” programs. That’s a better way to build the brand and remember that “People matter”. Communities are the backbone of advancements in technology. The ambassador program improves on this idea.

In this blog, we’ll go over the “Ambassadorship” program in depth, how it benefits testers and engineers, where they can apply, and what choices are available. Let us go deep together and become advocates for the deserved tools/technologies.

What is Ambassadorship?

Let’s see the basic definition.

Ah, that sounds like a very powerful word. Isn’t it? Yes, in terms of political reasons, we can refer to the above description.

What exactly does it imply when it comes to software?

Being an ambassador entails advocating for and supporting a particular tool or technology with proper reasons and justification. Also being an expert in that tool/technology and willing to contribute to its evolvement.

To clarify, you are affiliated with one particular brand/organization and promote its products by having a solid knowledge of them.

Software engineer ambassadorship programs foster partnerships between software engineers and technology-based companies. The goal of such initiatives is to raise awareness and create an open/friendly relationship between people and the software engineering community. Activities such as internship or mentoring programs, educational/community projects, and involvement in charity events tend to be included. These programs often require software engineers to contribute by writing content, speaking at events, or participating in social media campaigns.

How to Get Involved in Ambassadorship Programs?

If you’re a software engineer or tester interested in participating in an ambassadorship program, you can easily get started with some proper planning and effort.

• The first step is to research different types of programs and identify those that align with your interests and career goals.
• Next, you must understand the program’s details, qualifications, and expectations, and you should keep an eye on the program’s website because some programs accept applications all year, while others have specific months or time frames to apply.
• Next, you can reach out to your manager/employer, industry association, or professional organization to inquire about available opportunities. Also, there’s a possibility that your employer might be partnered with some products or companies.
• Finally, it is critical to prepare an appealing and powerful portfolio that showcases your abilities and experience. Make a point of emphasizing any relevant expertise or accomplishments that qualify you for the ambassadorship program. 

List of available options

There are plenty of opinions are available for both students and working professionals. Every program has its own set of expectations and guidelines. It’s harder to get into a few programs, but you can do it if you are constantly working towards it. Based on your area of interest, or your current job knowledge/expertise you can pick and apply for those programs.

Let’s see some of the famous options available for the Software engineers.

1. GitHub Campus Experts: Campus Experts are student leaders that strive to build diverse and inclusive spaces to learn skills, share their experiences, and build projects together. They can be found across the globe leading in-person and online conferences, meetups, and hackathons, and maintaining open-source projects.
2. Microsoft Student Partners: The Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors program sponsors students studying in technology-related fields. The MLSA program improves students’ employability by providing instruction in skills that are not typically taught in academics, including knowledge of Microsoft technologies. Ambassadors are expected to spread knowledge throughout the academic community by organizing classes, delivering talks, and starting projects, among other things.
3. Google Women Techmakers Ambassadors: The Women Techmakers Ambassador program supports women in technology who are looking to create impact and give back to their communities. As an Ambassador, you’ll engage with your community by participating in one or more leadership activities on a quarterly basis. Ambassadors receive support from Google and the larger Ambassador community.
4. Stack Overflow Ambassadors: These champions will represent Stack Overflow on campus, collaborate with them to bring more of their peers on board, and take a leadership role in finishing tasks, collecting awards, and planning future semesters.
5. Intel Software Innovators: This program provides speaking and demonstration opportunities for innovative, independent developers. Through their expertise and innovation with cutting-edge technology, these developers demonstrate a spirit of ingenuity, experimentation, and forward-thinking that inspires the greater developer community.
6. Facebook Developer Circles: Developer Circles are communities of innovators, where experienced developers receive free opportunities to strengthen their expertise in Meta products. Take part in online discussions and attend local meet-ups by joining one of the hundreds of circles around the globe.
7. AWS Ambassador: The AWS Ambassador Partner Program enables employees of AWS Partners to become technical experts in various domains by obtaining AWS certifications and developing publicly consumable content such as technical write-ups, blogs, and open-source projects that drive thought leadership. AWS Ambassadors possess multiple AWS certifications and in-depth AWS knowledge to further evangelize AWS and their partner organization to customers.
8. Apple Developer Academies: The iOS Developer University Program is a free program designed for higher education institutions looking to introduce iOS development into their curriculum.
9. Google Developers Group Ambassadors: Organizers of Google Developer Groups are passionate leaders in their community who are dedicated to helping others learn and connect. GDG organizers plan and host meetup events on a wide range of technical topics typically monthly in a location near them.
10. WomenTech Network Global Ambassador: Women Tech Network is a global network for Women technology enthusiasts on a mission to unite and celebrate 100000 women in tech to discuss things that matter.
11. Docker Captain: Docker Captain is a distinction that Docker awards select members of the community that are both experts in their field and are passionate about sharing their Docker knowledge with others. Captains are Docker ambassadors (not employees) and their commitment to sharing their expertise has a huge impact on the Docker community by blogging, writing books, speaking, running workshops, creating tutorials and classes, offering support in forums, or organizing and contributing to local events.
12. Auth0 Ambassador: Auth0 Ambassadors spread knowledge on authentication and security topics through meetings, conferences, written material, webinars, and other activities.
13. CNCF Ambassador: Cloud Native Ambassadors (CNAs) are credible advocates for the cloud native ecosystem, driven by their passion for CNCF technologies and projects, as well as furthering the mission of open source.
14. Postman Student Programs: As a Postman Student Leader, you will become a leader, educator, and advocate for API literacy on your campus.
15. Twilio Champions: Twilio Champions should be regular contributors to the developer community and demonstrate Twilio product knowledge. You can apply for the Twilio Champions program if you are a helpful, enthusiastic developer who is brimming with knowledge and ready to share your skills.
16. Alexa Champions: Alexa Champions is a recognition program designed to honor the most engaged developers and contributors in the community. Through their passion and knowledge for Alexa, these individuals continue to educate and inspire other developers in the community – both online and offline.  

I hope these options are quite useful. Once you’re geared up you can select your choice and submit it!

These above-mentioned initiatives are not just for developers. If you are a Tester and have a strong interest in a specific tool or technology, go for it. Don’t feel intimated. Just make sure you qualify for the program and that it will benefit your career.

Please review the regulations before continuing, and most programs will require you to sign an NDA before enrolling. Furthermore, the majority of the initiatives do not provide any immediate monetary benefits.

 

Testing-specific programs for Software Testers

Many Test Automation tools/platforms have launched ambassadorship programs, and testers are encouraged to get involved and contribute. Developers and other professionals who are captivated by the application/tool may also apply.

I picked a few options which can be beneficial for testers. Let’s discuss them in detail.

Postman Supernova:

Postman is one of the handy tools for API Testing. Postman Supernova is a designation given to a leader who brings an extra level of energy into the Postman universe. This energy can take various forms, from running meetups to sharing knowledge at workshops to evangelizing Postman “on stage” at virtual events. Supernovas are not Postman employees but are ambassadors who represent an extension of Postman’s community and values. I am happy to say that I am a “Postman Supernova” and read this blog to learn about my experiences with the program.

AWS Community Builder:

The AWS Community Builders program offers technical resources, education, and networking opportunities to AWS technical enthusiasts and emerging thought leaders who are passionate about sharing knowledge and connecting with the technical community. I am an AWS Community builder over the past two years. Read this blog to know about my personal experiences with the program.

LambdaTest Spartans:

LambdaTest Spartans is a community advocacy program for innovators, builders, and change-makers, including community evangelists, who are transforming the testing & QA world. I am proudly associated with LambdaTest as a Spartan since last December (2022). You can watch the LambdaTest Spartans Panel discussion here which happened in December 2022.

BrowserStack Champions:

The BrowserStack Champions Program aims to recognize, celebrate and bring together thought leaders & experts from across the globe. I am one of the champions and you can see the list of champions listed on the website.

k6 Champions:

The k6 Champions Program aims to recognize experts within our community to amplify their contributions and partner with the k6 team. If you are keen to teach and spread the word about k6 then this program is for you.

Personally, I liked using k6 for the quick load testing for my APIs. Additionally, the Postman collections can be turned into a k6 file, which you can then modify and execute. I spoke about this topic in TestFlix 2022 by The Test Tribe community and the recording is available here.

Applitools Ambassador:

Applitools has assembled a group of inspirational testers, developers, and leaders who have decades of combined experience to collaborate and give insights to help shape the future of their favorite tool.

Cypress Ambassador:

Cypress Ambassadors go the extra mile in sharing their knowledge through blog posts, articles, webcasts, conferences, meetups, and other events.

Playwright Ambassador:

Playwright Ambassadors are sharing their knowledge and passion for Playwright through live streams, video courses, conference talks, and more.

Pynt Ambassador:

Pynt’s goal is to assist developers and testers by quickly producing automated API security tests from existing functional test collections. Pynt’s free community edition is now available straight from Postman. You can join the community via Slack. Pynt empowers developers and testers to assume end-to-end responsibility as they transition from development to production. A Pynt a day will keep the bad people at bay when it comes to API security!

SelectorsHub Ambassador:

Selectors hub is started with an intention to help the Testers to find the Xpath of the elements during UI Automation. Founder Sanjay, came up with many innovative solutions after that. Recently the Ambassador program is launched and you can check the details that if you qualify.

Testsigma:

Testsigma is one of the preferred LC/NC Test Automation Tool. You can join their discord channel and connect with the peer testing advocates.

Benefits of Ambassadorship Programs

Ambassadorship programs provide numerous advantages to software developers and testers. This can help software engineers better their abilities and become more competitive in their industry.

• Access to New Resources: Ambassadorship programs provide software engineers with access to resources that are used internally. These resources may include events, online courses, tutorials, and technical materials.
• Develop Technical Skills: Ambassadorship programs provide software engineers with an opportunity to gain and develop technical skills in different areas. They will gain in-depth knowledge by spending more time exploring the tool.
• Learn Valuable Skills: Through these programs, software engineers can gain invaluable knowledge about coding, programming, and other pieces of software engineering. This could prove invaluable for software engineers to stay up to date on the latest technologies, and trends and develop coding best practices.
• Leadership & Networking Opportunities: Ambassadorship programs can provide engineers with leadership and networking opportunities. By participating in these programs, engineers may meet and collaborate with peers, employers, and other professionals who can help them grow and advance in their careers. It’s a great way to find job opportunities, get some advice, and establish working relationships with potential customers or employers.
• Enhanced Communication: Ambassadorship programs can help software engineers develop their communication skills. They will often work with a mentor to practice their communication skills and learn to effectively present their ideas and solutions. Working with people from different backgrounds and countries is common in the curriculum, which can aid in the development of cross-cultural communication skills
• Build Credibility & Reputation: Software engineers who participate in an ambassadorship program can establish themselves as a trusted leader. By participating in the program, they can build their credibility and show that they are knowledgeable and skilled in the particular technology.
• Community Involvement: Participation in an ambassadorship program allows software engineers to get involved in the community by sharing their knowledge and developing relationships with people. By participating in the program, they can help to educate and inspire others and build connections with communities that are interested in technology. Through communities, I made many good friends all over the globe. 
• Brand Evangelism and Awareness: Ambassadorship programs offer the opportunity to become a brand evangelist. This means that the software engineer can help to promote the products and services. These programs give software engineers an opportunity to get involved in the marketing and social media of the brand which could prove invaluable both for the company and the engineer.
• Professional Growth: Ambassadorship programs are also beneficial for software engineers in terms of personal and professional growth. Participating in ambassadorship programs can open up many career opportunities. Software engineers can develop their technical skills, and network and be exposed to various technologies and trends in the software engineering space. These programs can also provide a great platform for software engineers to develop their leadership skills and take on bigger projects.

To Conclude

Ambassadorship programs are an excellent opportunity for software engineers and testers to enhance their skills, expand their professional network, and promote their organization in a new market.

By taking advantage of these programs, software engineers and testers can take their careers to the next level and make a positive impact on the global tech industry. Of course, it requires a lot of effort and time, but it’s worth doing when you are looking for an option to try new things and expand your professional network.

Not only can celebs endorse a brand, but we as testers can also represent and promote our preferred tools/platforms.

Wishing you good luck in your “Ambassadorship ” journey.

Gif Courtesy: Tenor.com