As a student at the Bremen University in the degree course „Computer Engineering“, Christian Blank enrolled for the elective course “Basic knowledge – Software testing”. He took this opportunity to take the examination for the ISTQB® Certified Tester. He was motivated and encouraged by the experiences of the course lecturer, Prof. Dr. Andreas Spillner. During his lecture he had reported about the feedback he had from former students, who had told him that the knowledge about systematically tested software was required in the economy and presents a distinct career advantage. The experiences which Christian Blank made at the end of his studies further confirmed these reports.

Since June 2009, the former student has now been employed with ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH as test engineer in the area of software integration and test. He is convinced that it was the ISTQB®-certificate that opened the door for him to his job interview. In the meantime, all employees at ATLAS ELEKTRONIK who are involved in the software development sit the exam which Blank passed during his university studies. One reason for this: The organisation’s customers like to see that the employees hold the ISTQB®-certificate, and some even request this explicitly. The knowledge which Christian Blank gained in the lectures during his studies is part of daily business at his current employer and is therefore extremely helpful for his job.  

It is true that he did not know all the tools used at ATLAS ELEKTRONIK, but the determining factor for success and practical use was ultimately the basic knowledge which he brought with him. Therefore Christian Blank is pleased when he looks back:
“I am very happy that I used the opportunity and got the for the examination fee together at the time. This investment has paid for itself many times over.” On one hand, it brought him a big advantage over his competitors when looking for a job. He only had to write two applications before he achieved a very quick entry into the world of employment just a few days after passing his diploma. On the other hand, he profits from an excellent remuneration and good work conditions today. His conclusion is clear: „To acquire the basic knowledge about software tests is definitely worthwhile.“  

• Christian Blank
  ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH
  Sebaldsbrücker Heerstraße 235
  28309 Bremen
  
• E-Mail: christian.blank@atlas-elektronik.com