Valentina Panova on career paths, confidence, and work-life balance

If you’re looking for a story that inspires growth and confidence, this interview is for you. Valentina Panova, Senior QA Engineer at Exadel, shares her journey in tech, reflecting on the power of resilience, self-belief and women supporting each other. Her story is a reminder that building a career is as much about having the right mindset, empathy, and the courage to grow as it is about technical skills.

Let’s start from the beginning. What was your childhood dream job? Does it connect in any way to what you do now?

I grew up in a family that had built a dairy business literally from scratch—in our basement. I remember the smell of fresh milk, the sound of machines, and my father and grandfather working late into the night, making cheese with care and precision. Watching them turn a small idea into a real company taught me what it means to be resilient and proud of your work. That mindset stayed with me.

Today, as a Senior QA Engineer in Exadel, I don’t just test products—I protect them. I treat every feature like it’s something built with care from the ground up. My father used to say that quality is not just a checkbox, it’s a responsibility. That lesson still guides me.

Do you remember when you first realized you enjoyed problem-solving?

I don’t think there was one specific moment. It happened naturally. QA requires more than technical skills—you have to remain calm and believe that every problem has a solution. I try not to panic when things break. I investigate, analyze, and trust that even the most complex issues can be solved. I’m still chasing the satisfaction I feel when I’ve made things work better .

Was there a moment that changed how you see yourself as a professional?

Not a specific turning point, but I remember moments when developers reached out to thank me. They told me they preferred working with me because I was clear, structured, and approachable. That’s when I realized that my strengths go beyond testing. It’s not just about finding bugs—it’s also about making other people’s work easier. I see my role as more of a bridge than a checkpoint.

How important are soft skills in your role?

They’re essential. I’d say it’s 50% technical skills and 50% soft skills. Communication, empathy, and collaboration are just as important as technical knowledge.

‍Who has influenced your growth the most?

At Exadel, my Scrum Master, Olena Kovalova, has had a big impact on me. She was the only woman on our team, and she’s truly inspiring—not just for her technical expertise, but for the way she leads. She taught me how to communicate better, how to lead without dominating others, and how to truly listen. Her presence reminded me that being the only woman in the room doesn’t mean being quiet. You can be powerful in your own way.

One of the things I appreciate most is Exadel’s culture of continuous learning. The regular knowledge-sharing sessions expose me to new tools, ideas, and ways of thinking. Even when I’m not applying all of them immediately, they still expand my perspective, and that has real value.

Above all, working here taught me that growth means more than climbing the career ladder—it’s also about becoming someone others can count on.

What’s something people would never guess about your role?

That my “secret power” comes from outside of work—I’m a full-time mom of two amazing girls. Motherhood has taught me time management, emotional intelligence, and creative problem-solving. I’ve learned how to stay calm under pressure, juggle priorities, and communicate clearly, especially with two toddlers with strong opinions!
It’s like a leadership bootcamp. And honestly, it’s made me better professionally.

If your journey were a book or movie, what would it be called?

“Debugging Dreams”. Because I’m a dreamer, but also someone who works hard to turn those dreams into reality. My journey is about balancing ambition with real life: motherhood with a career, creativity with structure.

Looking ahead, what are your goals?

In my career, I want to grow in automation and explore how AI is integrated into QA workflows. But my real goal is to become a mentor — supporting junior QAs and creating space for other women in tech to feel seen and supported. I’m here to make an impact, not to chase titles. And I’m really excited to contribute to communities like the Women@Exadel network, where this kind of support and connection can truly grow.