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Lewis Prescott: from Psychology to Test Lead

Social media handle(s): @WuigPrescott (X), LinkedIn


A few words about me:

Picture of Lewis Prescott wearing a green sports top with Cycling Arena in the background.

I am a Test Lead at IBM, the author of Contract Testing in Action for Manning Publications, a course author on Test Automation University, and I have a podcast talking about Contract Testing.


I am taller than you might expect. Before having children, I was a keen cyclist, including trips to Paris and Bruges from London.


Are there any professional experiences you've had that are quite unexpected compared to what you do nowadays?


A degree in Psychology.


Is your background more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or non-STEM related?


Social Sciences - so non-STEM!


Where did your professional journey start?


At SkillsArena as 1st line support. As it was a small company, I was involved in a variety of activities including marketing, account management and software testing.


How did you get into tech and what motivated you?


I got into tech full time through a graduate scheme at The Test People (now Ten10). Working at SkillsArena sparked my interest and the graduate scheme offered a route to expand my skills in software testing.


Have you experienced any 'career in tech' challenges / stereotypes?


As a tester you often get stereotyped as "non-technical". Which has given me imposter syndrome in certain roles at the start of my career.


"Not all tech involves technical skills. Also technical skills can be learned, the most important thing is having an attitude for continuous learning and being able to problem solve."

What you wish you knew before getting started in tech...


I wish I knew that tech isn't all about coding and nerdy stuff. A large majority of the role is centred around communication and working with people.


What has been your biggest 'wow!' moment related to working in tech so far?


Working at Cancer Research UK and working closely with scientists who are using the technology to try and cure cancer. Really hits home at how powerful the work you are doing can be.


What do you like / not like about working in tech?


I love the flexibility of work and building impactful software that makes a difference to society especially in Healthcare.


I struggle with the politics and tedious nature of the work sometimes.


"I wish I knew that tech isn't all about coding and nerdy stuff."

What's been your favourite / most memorable / funniest 'career in tech' moment so far?


My favourite moment was when my book (co-authored with Marie Cruz) went into "Early Access" release on Manning Publications website.


And to wrap up, is there any advice you'd like to give to others interested in a career in tech?


Not all tech involves technical skills. Also technical skills can be learned, the most important thing is having an attitude for continuous learning and being able to problem solve.

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