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Three Questions with Senior Test Engineer, Kelly Wrinkle

Kelly Wrinkle has always had an interest in technology. While studying interactive design and game development in college, she discovered that her attention to detail and curiosity would make her a perfect fit for a career in testing. Test engineers are required to fully test a product or system to ensure it functions properly and meets the business’ needs and design. Let’s just say, she excels at this.

Kelly started her testing career at a little startup in her college town. After relocating to Austin, she joined SailPoint, overseeing the testing of new features for our identity platform. For the past eight years, Kelly has been an invaluable part of the SailPoint Crew and her hard work has paved the way to her current role as a senior test engineer. We sat down with Kelly to learn what advice she has for other women in identity.

If you had to start over from scratch, knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?

I would have to say I would go to a community college first then go on to a four-year school. That route is great for figuring out what subjects you like and might want to make a career of. Also, don’t be afraid to change your mind. It’s ok to think you want to do one thing but find you really like doing another and make a career out of it. For example, I found out I didn’t have a knack for sales because of my job in college.

2020 has been an interesting year. What’s the most important business or other discovery you’ve made in the past six months?

I discovered that I can work from home and be just as productive as in the office, although I do miss my standing desk and the lunches. Granted, the only distraction I have is my cat, so I lucked out. I also discovered that my afternoon walks are more important than I thought, clearing my mind at lunch really helps keep the stress down (and the waistline).

What is the biggest challenge facing leaders today?

I think the biggest challenge facing leaders today is communication. Without having the in-person conversations, it can be harder to tell if someone is actually OK or understands what is being communicated. Video conferences can help but nothing compares to in person.


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