In a recent brain trust session with quality testing leaders, we started with a simple yet thought-provoking icebreaker: “Name a leader who inspires you and why.” The responses spanned historical icons, industry trailblazers, and modern changemakers, each reflecting personal and professional values that resonate deeply with quality testing.

Here’s a closer look at the leaders who were mentioned, what makes them inspiring, and how their qualities tie into the world of quality testing.

Michelle Obama

Why she inspires: Her vulnerability, honesty, and ability to navigate personal and professional challenges with grace.

‍Connection to quality testing: Leadership in testing requires addressing tough realities—whether it’s admitting process failures or advocating for better practices. Michelle Obama’s example reminds us that vulnerability and honesty build trust. A transparent testing team is more likely to uncover critical insights and collaborate effectively toward meaningful improvements.

Jocko Willink

Why he inspires: Author of Extreme Ownership, which emphasizes accountability and leadership.

‍Connection to quality testing: The concept of “extreme ownership” applies directly to testing. Owning the outcomes—whether successes or failures—reinforces the importance of accountability at every level. Quality is a reflection not only of the code but also of processes, communication, and teamwork. By embracing ownership, testing teams create a culture where challenges are tackled head-on and resolved collaboratively.

Edward Deming

Why he inspires: A pioneer in statistical quality control and Six Sigma methodology.

‍Connection to quality testing: Deming’s focus on systems thinking and data-driven decision-making aligns perfectly with modern testing practices. Metrics, automation, and root cause analysis are essential for driving continuous improvement. His philosophy demonstrates that quality is not a one-time effort but the result of iterative, structured processes that deliver consistently better outcomes.

Sridhar Vembu

Why he inspires: Built Zoho from the ground up, nurturing talent from underserved communities and prioritizing societal impact.

‍Connection to quality testing: Vembu’s commitment to inclusivity highlights the value of diverse perspectives in testing. A team with varied backgrounds is more likely to uncover overlooked issues, leading to stronger testing practices. His focus on grassroots innovation also reminds us of the potential for testing hubs to emerge in unexpected places, democratizing access to opportunities and innovation.

Jimmy Carter

Why he inspires: Known for tackling tough, unpopular challenges with integrity and conviction.

‍Connection to quality testing: Testing leaders often face resistance when advocating for necessary changes, such as delaying a release to address critical defects. Carter’s example underscores the importance of standing by principles, even when it’s difficult. This integrity fosters trust among stakeholders and ensures that quality remains a top priority.

Miles Davis

Why he inspires: Embraced and adapted to mistakes during performances.

‍Connection to quality testing: Testing is rarely flawless, and unexpected results are part of the process. Davis’ mindset of turning mistakes into opportunities aligns perfectly with the iterative nature of testing. Rather than viewing issues as failures, testers can use them as insights to refine products and processes. This resilience encourages innovation and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

Steve Jobs

Why he inspires: His visionary ideas disrupted industries, driven by an uncompromising focus on quality.

‍Connection to quality testing: Jobs’ relentless pursuit of perfection highlights the importance of setting high standards in testing. Rigorous iteration and attention to detail transform good products into great ones. Ensuring that your testing processes cover all critical areas is a foundational step toward delivering exceptional quality. Check out these 10 key considerations for assessing your test coverage to see how your current approach measures up.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Why he inspires: Demonstrated courage and solidarity under immense pressure during Ukraine’s crisis.

‍Connection to quality testing: Leading a testing team often involves tough decisions, tight deadlines, and high stakes—especially during major product launches. Zelenskyy’s resolve reminds us of the importance of focus and clarity under pressure. Testing leaders can rally their teams around shared goals, support them through challenges, and maintain purpose even in the most demanding situations.

Bridging Leadership and Quality Testing

The leaders mentioned in our brain trust session share common traits: resilience, adaptability, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. These qualities are vital not only in leadership but also in the pursuit of quality.

From Michelle Obama’s transparency to Deming’s system-focused mindset, and from Miles Davis’ adaptability to Jocko Willink’s accountability, testing leaders have much to learn from these examples. Quality testing goes beyond catching bugs—it’s about fostering integrity, driving innovation, and continuously improving.

As we move into 2025, take a moment to reflect: Which leader(s) inspire you and why? How do their values align with the work you do in testing?

More importantly, how will you emulate their leadership qualities to improve your testing practices this year? Whether it’s championing transparency, focusing on team accountability, or embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, there’s always room to evolve and lead with purpose.

Great leadership and quality share the same goal: creating something better than what came before. Let’s make 2025 a year of inspired improvement, together.

For more on quality testing check out our webinar on how beta and Customer Validation can help improve quality assurance testing at your organization below.