PLATO Panel Talks
PLATO
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PLATO Panel Talks is a monthly podcast that brings together a panel of experts from the PLATO team and community to explore and discuss topics related to software testing and quality assurance. Each episode features debates and shared experiences on challenges and trends in the field. The show aims to provide insights from practitioners for those interested in improving testing practices and software quality.
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From Tester to Leader: Mentoring, Coaching & Management in Tech 31.08.2026 39minWhat happens when you move from being an individual contributor to managing and developing others? In this episode of PLATO Panel Talks, host Mike Hrycyk is joined by Heather Stapleton (PLATO, Delivery Leader, Atlantic Region) and Ellery Furlong (PLATO, Manager) for a practical conversation about mentoring, coaching, and management in tech with lessons from their own experiences, including how to build trust, support quieter team members, adapt your mentoring style, and avoid becoming a crutch for the people you lead. Moving into management isn't just about taking on more responsibility. It's about learning how to help others, and yourself, grow confidently in technology careers. Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/ -
Tools of the Trade: Automation Edition 11.08.2026 23minWhat's in your automation toolbox?In this special summer episode, host Mike Hrycyk is joined by automation and QA leaders who share the tools they're using to improve software quality, accelerate testing, andnavigate the growing influence of AI.From Postman for API testing and collaboration,to Ruff, Black, and SonarQube for code quality, to Jira Rovo and custom-built AI solutions, the conversation explores practical tools that are helping teams work smarter, streamline their workflows, and deliver better software.Whether you're a tester, developer, automation engineer, or QA leader, you'll come away with new ideas, new tools to explore, and a fresh perspective on what’s in the automation toolbox.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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AI Testing, Trust & Indigenous Perspectives: Inside TELUS x PLATO Collaboration 01.06.2026 33minIn this episode of PLATO Panel Talks, host Mike Hrycyk is joined by Jesslyn Dymond (TELUS) and Jason Kicknosway (PLATO) to explore what it really takes to build trustworthy, responsible AI systems.From first-time AI testing to real-world implementation, Jason shares how PLATO testers learned to work with AI and how quickly they discovered the importance of nuance, prompting, and diverse perspectives when evaluating performance.With trust in AI still low, Jesslyn brings a governance lens to the conversation, highlighting the need for transparency, explainability, and inclusive design, especially the integration of Indigenous perspectives, which are often missing from mainstream AI models.Whether you’re just starting your AI journey or already building with it, this episode offers a practical, human-centred look at AI testing, trust, and responsible innovation—and why better outcomes start with more voices at the table.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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The Intersection of DevOps, Automation, and AI 04.05.2026 31minThis month, host Mike Hrycyk is joined by Arash Taheri (Central One Credit Union) and DJ Sicoli-Khull (PLATO) for a deep dive into the evolving intersection of DevOps, automation, and artificial intelligence. The panel explores how DevOps has shifted from a culture-driven practice to a more integrated, platform-oriented ecosystem in which AI and automation are no longer optional but foundational. From the rise of platform engineering and DevSecOps to AI-assisted test selection and predictive pipelines, the conversation highlights how modern DevOps is becoming smarter, more adaptive, and increasingly developer-focused.Whether you're a DevOps practitioner, QA engineer, or technology leader, this episode offers practical insights into how automation and AI are reshaping software delivery, and what it takes to stay ahead.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Becoming a Test Lead: Skills for Driving Software Quality 06.04.2026 28minWhat does it really mean to be a Test Lead? In this episode of PLATO Panel Talks, host Mike Hrycyk sits down with experienced testing professionals Sal Bugliarisi (Accenture) and Bhavya Bhatnagar (PLATO) to draw on their real-world experience across projects and teams. The panel discusses how Test Leads influence testing strategy, guide communication across stakeholders, and help teams balance quality with delivery timelines. They also explore the leadership skills that make the biggest difference—from mentoring testers and managing risk to advocating for quality throughout the development lifecycle. Whether you're an aspiring Test Lead, a tester looking to grow into leadership, or a technology leader who wants to better understand the value of quality leadership, this conversation offers practical insights into how strong Test Leads help teams deliver better software.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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10 Years of PLATO Training: Growing Indigenous Talent in Tech 05.03.2026 41minIn this special milestone episode, Mike Hrycyk sits down with Keith McIntosh (PLATO CEO and Co-Founder) and Denis Carignan (PLATO President and Co-Founder) to celebrate 10 years of Indigenous Software Tester Training. Together, they reflect on how the program began in Fredericton, New Brunswick, the vision behind its creation, and how it has grown into a national model for building Indigenous careers in technology. From early challenges and lessons learned to scaling workforce development across Canada, this conversation explores what it takes to create lasting impact in tech education.The episode also features reflections from members of the very first cohort, Kevin Jerome, Keisha Nguyen, and Matt Amos, sharing how the training shaped their careers and perspectives over the past decade. As PLATO continues recruiting for a new cohort in 2026, this 10-year reflection, with real-world insight from the leaders and graduates who helped shape the journey, looks back at what’s been achieved and forward to the future of Indigenous talent in Canada’s technology sector.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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AI for the Real World: Business Strategy, Governance, and Getting Started 02.02.2026 39minArtificial Intelligence is everywhere — but how do organizations move beyond the hype and actually create value? This month, Mike Hrycyk is joined by Emma Heo (Lead for Public Service AI and Data at Accenture Canada) and Emily Cowperthwaite (COO at PLATO) for a practical, candid conversation about what AI really means for businesses today. Drawing from real-world experience at both a global enterprise and a growing technology services company, Emma and Emily share practical insight on how AI is being used today to improve productivity, streamline processes, and support better decision-making — along with honest discussion about how organizations can start small, build AI literacy, and responsibly experiment without losing sight of governance, trust, and business value and why AI success isn’t measured by the number of models deployed.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Performance Testing 101: What Managers Need to Know 05.01.2026 42minPerformance testing isn’t always required, but knowing when it is can make or break your product. In this episode, Mike Hrycyk and guests Ryan Hobbs (BC Pension Corp.) and Praneeth Eadara (PLATO) explore real criteria for deciding whether to invest in performance testing, what’s at risk if they decide to skip it, how to scope a first project, and what managers should consider before committing time and budget. Whether you’re a QA manager, developer, or business stakeholder, this panel will help you to understand the value (and limits) of performance testing – and how to plan for it long before peak load becomes a problem! Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Testing Deadline Stories: When Project Schedules Go Off the Rails 01.12.2025 24minIn this episode of PLATO Panel Talks, we dive into real testing deadline stories – from last-minute showstoppers and gruelling manual regressions to automation breakthroughs, production outages, and rapid-fire pandemic response. These tales from PLATO testers reveal how teams adapt under pressure, make tough calls, and turn scheduling chaos into shared resilience and learning. If you’ve lived through your own unforgettable deadline or have a story that shaped your testing career, we’d love to hear from you. Connect with us on PLATO Testing's social media or on our website! Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Black Friday Testing: How to Keep Retail Sites Running Under Pressure 03.11.2025 29minThe holiday rush isn’t just stressful for shoppers – it’s make-or-break for retailers. In this episode of PLATO Panel Talks, Mike Hrycyk sits down with QA experts Susan Finley and Samta Kaura (PLATO) to unpack how teams prepare for holiday and Black Friday testing. They dive into the real risks of downtime, the importance of performance and functional testing, and why code freezes never quite hold. From managing last-minute patches to coordinating with third-party systems, the panel shares lessons learned from years in retail QA and offers tips for keeping sites stable when traffic and tension are at their peak. Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Too Small to Hack? Security Testing from Startups to Enterprises 06.10.2025 37minThink your company’s too small to be hacked? Think again. Hackers don’t care how big you are, and our experts, Joel Vautour (PLATO) and Roberto Salgado (Websec), join Mike Hrycyk to break down how to get started with security testing. From PCI compliance to phishing scams, they share real-world insights on spotting vulnerabilities, choosing the right testing approach, and how AI is reshaping the cybersecurity battle. Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Test Management Tools: The Hidden Backbone of Quality Assurance 08.09.2025 33minThis month, host Mike Hrycyk sits down with QA experts Snehal Lohar (Slalom) and Richard Bird (PLATO) to talk all things test management tools Whether you're still using spreadsheets or navigating your way through ADO, qTest, TestRail, or Jira add-ons, this conversation covers why having the right tool matters – and how to make it work for your team. If you're evaluating tools or just want to get more out of the one you already have, this episode’s for you.Episode Transcript HereFind us at: http://platotech.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLATOTechGroup/
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Trust Issues: QA’s Role in Securing the iGaming Experience 12.08.2025 37minIn today’s digital world, customer trust is everything, especially when money, data, and emotion are all on the line. In this episode, Mike Hrycyk is joined by Neha Batta (Director of Delivery Services at BCLC) and James Hurst (QA Manager at PLATO) to explore what it takes to build and maintain trust in the online gaming space. From the complexities of gaming compliance in Canada to the real-life ripple effects of software bugs, this panel dives deep into how quality assurance acts as the first line of defence. You'll hear about the layers of regulation, the role of testers in securing fair play, and why even non-financial bugs can drive players away. Tune in to learn how QA is more than just testing.Episode transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/PLATO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/
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WCAG, Tools & Testing: Scoping Your Accessibility Project 11.06.2025 42minNot sure how to kick off an accessibility testing project? Host Mike Hrycyk talks with Abhishek Gupta (Director of Service Delivery, PLATO) and Juan Olarte (CEO and co-founder, Digita11y Accessible) about where to begin, how to scope your efforts, what tools you’ll need, and how accessibility fits into your dev lifecycle. Whether you're just getting started or refining your process, this episode offers clear steps and expert insights on scoping accessibility testing projects for WCAG.Find us at: http://platotech.com/PLATO LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/
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Testing Software for the Federal Government: Big Teams, Big Impact 14.05.2025 39minWhat’s it really like to test software on massive federal projects? In this episode, host Mike Hrycyk is joined by Scott Dillon (Associate Manager, PLATO) and Paul Schenk (Accenture) for a deep dive into the unique challenges and worthwhile wins of working on Federal Government projects. From navigating massive team structures and governance requirements to prioritizing accessibility and user consensus, our panellists share their insights, lessons learned, and what makes federal testing both complex and deeply rewarding. Whether you’re starting your first government project or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, the panel challenges assumptions and offers a fresh perspective on working in the public tech sector.Episode Transcript hereFind us at: http://platotech.com/PLATO LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/
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Next-Gen Automation Tools: Testing Smarter, Faster, Better 09.04.2025 36minAutomation is evolving—are you keeping up? In this episode of PLATO Panel Talks, host Mike Hrycyk is joined by Matt Heusser (Author & Lead Consultant, Excelon Development) and John McLaughlin (Test Automation Specialist, PLATO) to explore the future of next-generation automation testing tools. Together, they discuss what testing tools tell us about everything from the role of AI and machine learning in test automation to how low-code and no-code automation is changing the game and overcoming common challenges in automation adoption. With real-world insights from industry experts, this episode is a must-listen for QA professionals, developers, and tech leaders looking to stay ahead in an era of rapid innovation.Episode Transcript hereCheck out Software Testing Strategies: A Guide for the 2020s by Matt Heusser & Michael LarsenFind us at: http://platotech.com/PLATO LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/
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Leveraging Consultants for Real Results 11.03.2025 35minAre you maximizing your organization's potential use of consulting services? Join host Mike Hrycyk as he delves into the realities of effective consulting with industry experts Jamie Weber (National Director of IT and Business Consulting at PLATO) and Deidre Donaldson Meyer (Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at SGI). Together, they debunk misconceptions and reveal how consultants provide targeted expertise and fresh perspectives to achieve business objectives. Discover practical strategies for determining when your organization needs external support, learn how SGI successfully partners with consultants, and avoid common pitfalls. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to confidently leverage consulting and drive real results.Episode Transcript HereFind us at: http://platotech.com/PLATO LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/
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Growing Indigenous Tech pt 2 11.02.2025 35minJoin us for the exciting second part of our Growing Indigenous Tech series on PLATO Panel Talks. In this episode, we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of Indigenous tech founders with guest host Ryan St. Germaine (CEO and Founder of Indigenous Tech Circle). The panel is a dynamic discussion with guests Bobbie Racette (CEO & Founder of Virtual Gurus) and Jayde Pelly (Founder of JDP Software Solutions & Associate Consultant, PLATO). They share their unique experiences and insights on the importance of mentorship, community support, and the potential for Indigenous entrepreneurs to start their tech businesses. Discover how these trailblazers leverage technology to create opportunities for their communities and the transformative impact of building Indigenous-led enterprises in the tech space.Find the Episode Transcript here.Find Indigenous Tech Circle:www.jointechcircle.comFind us at: http://platotech.com/PLATO LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/Ryan St. Germaine LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanstgermaine/
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3 Generations of Software Testers 09.01.2025 39minThis month, our host, Mike Hrycyk, explores the diverse perspectives and experiences of different generations of testers in the tech world. Joined by a panel of experts from the PLATO Team Nicole LeBlanc, Shawnee Polchis, and Brennan Nadeau, representing Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, we delve into the unique interactions and communication styles that arise from generational differences. From nostalgic first memories of computer use to the evolving landscape of technology, our panellists share their personal stories and insights. Check out this discussion for a thought-provoking discussion on how generational dynamics shape the testing world and the way we approach technology today. Find the Episode Transcript here Find us at: http://platotech.com/ X: https://twitter.com/PLATOTesting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/ Podcast Music “Pastel" by Seastock is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 3.0.
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The Evolution of Test Cases for the Modern Tester 12.11.2024 40minIn today’s fast-paced software development world, writing test cases is more important than ever. But what does writing test cases look like for the modern tester? How will AI and automation impact the way we write and execute test cases? Mike Hrycyk is joined by Kevin Morgan (Senior Manager, PLATO) and Ryan Hobbs (QA & Test Manager, BC Ferries) to bring together their extensive experience to dive into these critical questions for software testers and how it is shaping who is writing test cases and how. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on the future of test case writing. Find the Episode Transcript here Find us at: http://platotech.com/ X: https://twitter.com/PLATOTesting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plato-testing/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platotesting/
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