Christine Pinto is a tech leader and Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO) at Epic Test Quest, with nearly 20 years of hands-on experience in software testing and quality assurance. Based in Berlin, she has shaped testing strategies across startups, government organizations, and global enterprises, spanning industries like fashion, public sector, and beyond. Her expertise lies in test automation, AI testing practices, and fostering quality-first cultures in dynamic environments.
As co-founder of Epic Test Quest, Christine drives the creation of innovative test management solutions, blending practical testing insights with cutting-edge AI technologies. A passionate advocate for gamifying software testing, she makes quality engineering approachable for teams of all sizes. Christine is a regular speaker at events like EuroSTAR, TestBash, and AutomationGuild, sharing actionable insights on AI challenges and testing innovation. At ISTC 2025, she’ll bring her unique perspective to help testers navigate the complexities of AI-driven quality assurance.

Clara Ramos Gonzalez brings over 14 years of QA expertise, serving as a Senior QA Manager dedicated to steering organizations through digital transformation. Renowned for assessing QA team maturity, refining processes, and tackling technical debt, Clara empowers teams to achieve excellence in software quality. Beyond her professional role, she volunteers as a mentor, training aspiring QA professionals to launch their careers and guiding seasoned specialists to new heights.
A certified yoga instructor with a deep commitment to meditation, Clara blends mindfulness with her passion for harmonizing technical and human elements in the workplace. Her speaking experience spans global conferences like TestCon, TestFlix, and Nerdearla, where she shares practical insights on quality and change management. At ISTC 2025, Clara will offer a unique perspective on integrating AI into QA, equipping attendees with strategies to lead transformative change effectively.

Ethem Utku Aktaş is a seasoned software engineer with over 20 years of experience in the banking domain, currently driving AI-powered testing innovations at Softtech A.Ş. With a PhD from Sabancı University in Computer Science and Engineering, Ethem has focused his research on automating bug triaging processes using machine learning, a passion he now applies to advancing test automation practices at Softtech and İşbank.
Specializing in integrating advanced technologies like Large Language Models (LLMs) into software engineering, Ethem has led transformative projects in API and UI testing, enhancing performance and reliability across live systems. A frequent speaker at prestigious conferences such as ICSE, ESEC/FSE, and IEEE SIU, he is known for his practical, engaging presentations. At ISTC 2025, Ethem will share his insights on leveraging LLMs for test automation, offering actionable strategies to elevate testing workflows in real-world applications.

Dr. Fernando Pastor Ricós is a post-doctoral researcher at Universitat Politècnica de València, where he completed his Ph.D. in 2025, focusing on scriptless GUI testing. Since 2017, he has been a key developer on the TESTAR team, advancing automated testing for desktop, web, mobile, and eXtended Reality (XR) applications. Currently, he contributes to the AUTOLINK project, integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) into TESTAR to enhance scriptless tools for functional requirements and user stories.
Fernando is an active disseminator of TESTAR research, presenting at conferences like RCIS and EASE, and delivering hands-on tutorials at industrial events such as Test Automation Days. At ISTC 2025, he teams up with Ramón de Vries to offer practical insights into scriptless GUI testing, drawing from his innovative work in quality assurance automation.

Hilal Rakıcı is a seasoned Software Quality Director at ParamTech, bringing over 13 years of experience in enhancing software quality processes across industries such as telecommunications, e-commerce, airlines, and fintech. Specializing in test automation, AI-driven quality assurance, and testing strategies, Hilal helps organizations improve software reliability and efficiency through innovative approaches.
In addition to her industry role, Hilal is a dedicated educator, serving as a lecturer at Bahçeşehir University and Marmara University, where she inspires the next generation of QA professionals. A passionate advocate for innovation, she actively explores the transformative impact of AI and machine learning on quality assurance. With a strong foundation in testing methodologies, process optimization, and QA metrics, Hilal is committed to empowering QA engineers to navigate the evolving landscape of AI-driven testing.
Hilal is a seasoned speaker, having presented at events like the 12th International Test Istanbul Conference and Komminity QA Talks, where she shares practical insights from real-world projects. At ISTC 2025, she will bring her expertise to life, offering actionable strategies for QA professionals to thrive in the AI era.

István Forgács, PhD, is a distinguished figure in software testing and a renowned innovator in the field. Originally a researcher at the Computer and Automation Research Institute of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, he has authored more than 25 scientific articles published in leading international journals and conference proceedings. He is the lead author of Modern Software Testing Techniques (Apress) and Practical Test Design (BCS), and the co-author of Agile Testing Foundations (BCS), solidifying his expertise as a thought leader in testing methodologies.
In 1998, István transitioned from academia to entrepreneurship, founding Y2KO, a startup that provided an efficient solution to the Y2K problem. He is currently the CEO of 4Test-Plus and the creator and key contributor of Harmony, the only two-phase model-based test automation tool. His groundbreaking work includes developing an intelligent mutation testing framework to enhance testers’ test design skills, as well as co-creating a unique website with Prof. Attila Kovács where testers can practice and improve their test design.
István has made significant contributions to the testing community, serving as an author for the Advanced Test Analyst Working Group and as a member of the Agile Working Group at ISTQB. A sought-after speaker, he has delivered keynotes, invited talks, and presentations at numerous academic and industrial conferences, including ISTC 2024, where he captivated audiences with his insights.
At ISTC 2025, István will lead a full-day tutorial on “Efficient Test Design Automation,” sharing his expertise in action-state testing—a revolutionary, codeless model-based testing technique that promises to transform how testers design and automate tests.

Jani Grönman is the Managing Partner and Quality Coach at Hidden Trail, a Digital Product Quality consultancy, bringing over 20 years of IT experience spanning coding, project management, agile practices, and test design. Passionate about quality thinking, Jani champions a co-creation approach, coaching teams to align testing with their unique goals. He believes quality is a mindset, not just a tooling issue, and advocates for tailored quality engineering practices over one-size-fits-all solutions.
With a rich speaking history, Jani has hosted Finland’s largest testing conference, Testing Assembly (2023, 2024), and delivered talks at events like HUSTEF, TestCon Europe, and QA Global Summit. His insights draw from real-world QA challenges across industries. At ISTC 2025, Jani will share his feasibility study on AI-augmented QA management, offering practical lessons from his work with complex corporate systems.

Merve Güler is a Systems Analyst in the IT Department at Türkiye İş Bankası, where she contributes to the development and management of a cutting-edge platform supporting test automation, service virtualization, and test lifecycle management. Her work focuses on providing the tools and infrastructure that empower testing teams to deliver high-quality software solutions efficiently.
With a keen interest in optimizing testing processes, Merve brings a hands-on perspective to her role, bridging technical innovation with practical application. At ISTC 2025, she collaborates with Rasim Yurtcan to present a SWOT analysis of AI-supported software testing, sharing insights that reflect her experience in building and maintaining advanced testing ecosystems at Türkiye İş Bankası.

Mesut Gunes began his career as a software developer in 2007, pivoting to test automation after three years and embracing DevOps since 2015. With a mission to accelerate software development through automation, he champions open-source tools and streamlined processes. Over the past seven years, Mesut has provided consultancy in test automation for startups and corporations alike, enhancing testing efficiency across diverse projects.
A prolific speaker, Mesut has presented at conferences like ISTC 2024, TestCon, HUSTEF, and Mobile DevOps Summit, sharing insights via talks, blog posts, and curated resources. Currently at Modus Create, LLC, he blends his expertise in testing and DevOps to drive quality innovation. At ISTC 2025, Mesut returns to explore machine learning’s role in continuous performance testing, offering practical strategies from his extensive career.

Michał Buczko is a Software Quality Manager at Viessmann, where he drives quality processes, designs KPIs, and optimizes testing systems for project deliveries. With a passion for fast, efficient testing, Michał excels in test harness design, industrialization solutions, scope definition, and impactful reporting. His expertise spans quality management, project consulting, and requirements analysis, honed over years of delivering high-quality software outcomes.
Beyond Viessmann, Michał actively shares his insights as a Quality Management Consultant, mentoring professionals to grow in their careers. A seasoned speaker, he has presented at multiple global events, blending practical experience with actionable advice. At ISTC 2025, Michał will explore critical thinking in AI-enhanced testing, offering a balanced perspective drawn from his extensive quality-focused journey. In his spare time, he enjoys archery, fishing, and a good glass of rum.

Mike Jarred is a seasoned technologist and career tester with over three decades of experience in the IT industry, beginning his journey in 1987. His extensive career has taken him across diverse sectors, including Financial Services and Life Sciences, where he has held influential roles such as Head of Testing and Development. Renowned for his strategic vision and hands-on expertise, Mike currently serves as a QAT Architect & Senior Consultant at 2i Limited, where he empowers clients to deliver high-quality software and maximize the value of their investments in testing and quality engineering.
A passionate advocate for personal and professional growth, Mike is a regular speaker at industry conferences and occasionally organizes events to foster knowledge-sharing within the IT community. His insights are shaped by a rich tapestry of real-world experiences, making him a compelling voice in the field of software testing and quality assurance.
At ISTC 2025, Mike will deliver a keynote titled “Stakeholder Management is a Testing Superpower!”, drawing from his journey to explore the critical role of effective stakeholder engagement in elevating the impact and perception of testing.

Murat Mercan is a Lead Test Automation Consultant with over 12 years of experience in the software industry, dedicated to delivering high-quality, reliable solutions. He guides teams in implementing advanced testing frameworks, specializing in test automation, service virtualization, and mobile device farms. Murat bridges development and QA through DevOps expertise, leveraging tools like RedHat OpenShift and Jenkins to streamline deployments and enhance efficiency.
Passionate about digital transformation, Murat aligns testing strategies with business goals, integrating cutting-edge technologies like AI to drive innovation. Beyond consulting, he shares his knowledge as a guest lecturer at Istanbul Technical University and has spoken at events like LambdaTest webinars. At ISTC 2025, Murat will explore AI’s role in test automation, offering practical insights from his extensive career in quality engineering.

Oguz Bor is a seasoned software engineer and QA specialist with over a decade of experience in software testing, test data management, and quality assurance. Currently a Senior DevOps Engineer at Garanti Bank, Oguz is at the forefront of integrating AI-powered testing tools and techniques to elevate software quality.
Certified in ISTQB, SS.T.U, and ISO27001 ISMS implementation, Oguz brings deep expertise in optimizing test processes across the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC). His work spans functional, performance, security, and automation testing for web and mobile applications, with a knack for enhancing efficiency using Agile and Kanban methodologies. He has led transformative projects in test data management (TDM), mastering static test data creation, data masking, and migration with tools like CA TDM and Ab Initio MetadataHub EDM.
Oguz’s technical toolkit includes automation frameworks (Selenium, Appium, UFT), performance testing tools (JMeter, LoadRunner), cloud solutions (AWS Device Farm), BDD frameworks (Cucumber, Karate), and CI/CD tools (Jenkins, SonarQube). With additional training in penetration testing, he excels in securing web applications.
A Computer Science graduate and active member of software testing communities, Oguz is passionate about driving innovation through AI-driven testing and agile transformation. His insights promise to inspire ISTC 2025 attendees as he shares his expertise in delivering high-quality software solutions.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oguzbor/

Okan is a distinguished leader in software quality with over 20 years of expertise, shaping testing practices worldwide. As founder and principal consultant of Padran Inc., he has guided countless organizations to optimize their software testing, application lifecycle management, and automation strategies, excelling in test automation, performance testing, and service virtualization. A co-founder of the Istanbul Software Testing Conference—an onsite international event within the ISTQB Conference Network—he drives global collaboration in the field.

An official ISTQB instructor, Okan is passionate about mentoring the next generation of testers, blending his deep industry experience with a commitment to education. His thought leadership shines through talks at prestigious events like HUSTEF and Test Automation Summit, where he’s inspired audiences across continents. Born in Turkey, Okan’s dedication to excellence stems from a strong work ethic, complemented by his love for music as a clarinet player—a creative outlet that fuels his personal and professional connections.

Okan continues to consult on cutting-edge projects, aiming to elevate software quality and empower professionals. Connect with him on LinkedIn to explore his work or discuss advancing your testing initiatives.

Ramón de Vries holds an M.Sc. in Applied Physics from TU Delft, specializing in Computational Physics, and brings over 20 years of experience in developing, testing, and maintaining large-scale open-source software infrastructures. His expertise spans the setup and optimization of complex systems, with a strong focus on ensuring reliability and performance through innovative testing approaches.
A seasoned professional, Ramón has collaborated on the TESTAR project, contributing his deep technical knowledge to scriptless GUI testing advancements. He has shared his insights at industrial conferences like TestNet and Test Automation Days, emphasizing practical applications. At ISTC 2025, Ramón joins Fernando Pastor Ricós to deliver a hands-on tutorial, showcasing scriptless testing techniques honed through decades of real-world experience.

Rasim Yurtcan is the Manager of the Test Automation and Performance Testing Team at Türkiye İş Bankası, where he leverages his extensive experience in software development and system architecture to drive technological innovation. With a focus on designing and implementing robust IT systems, Rasim has played a pivotal role in integrating advanced testing technologies within the banking sector. His leadership ensures seamless adoption of automation and performance solutions, enhancing system reliability and efficiency.
A seasoned professional, Rasim has shared his insights at notable conferences, including Test İstanbul (2014), IBM Cloud University (2017), and MicroFocus Realize (2022). At ISTC 2025, he teams up with Merve Güler to deliver a beginner-friendly exploration of AI-supported software testing, offering practical perspectives from his work at one of Türkiye’s leading financial institutions

Richard “Richie” Seidl is a seasoned software testing expert, agile quality coach, and podcast host with over 25 years of experience navigating the full spectrum of software quality—from groundbreaking systems to challenging legacy projects. As the founder of Richard Seidl Consulting GmbH, Richie has guided teams across industries like finance, automotive, logistics, and administration to elevate software quality, implement agile testing practices, and harness test automation.
A prolific author of multiple books on software testing, Richie is also a prominent voice in the global testing community, hosting a software testing podcast and delivering keynotes at renowned conferences such as Software Quality Days, Agile Testing Days, and QS-Tag. For Richie, exceptional software demands a holistic approach—integrating people, processes, methods, and tools to foster a quality-first mindset that drives innovation. At ISTC 2025, Richie will share his insights, offering practical strategies to help teams transform their approach to quality in today’s dynamic development landscape.

Rik Marselis is a Principal Quality Consultant at Sogeti Netherlands, with over 40 years in IT and 25 years specializing in quality engineering and testing. A dynamic presenter, trainer, author, and coach, he has empowered numerous organizations with practical tools and insights. Accredited in TMAP, ISTQB, and TPI, Rik co-authored “Quality for DevOps Teams” and “Testing in the Digital Age – AI Makes the Difference,” contributing significantly to www.TMAP.net.
Honored with the ISTQB Software Testing Excellence Award (2022) and EuroSTAR Testing Excellence Award (2023), Rik is a global speaker, having keynoted at ISTC 2024 and EuroSTAR eight times. As ISTC 2025 Program Chair, he leads a tutorial on Day 1 and delivers the opening keynote on Day 2, blending his GenAI expertise with hands-on quality engineering guidance.

We’re excited to spotlight another brilliant speaker in our ISTC 2025 lineup: Tolgahan Bardakci, PhD Candidate and Special Academic Staff at University of Antwerp!
With the full program live, join Tolgahan for “Test Amplification for REST APIs Using Large Language Models” at ISTC 2025. Drawing from 5+ years in testing and real-world case studies—like a London app used in 193 countries—Tolgahan shows how LLMs like ChatGPT revolutionize REST API testing. Expect practical techniques to cut time, boost fault detection, and amplify automation—perfect for test engineers and agile testers!
Join us May 21-22, 2025, at the Elite World Grand Istanbul Küçükyalı Hotel under our theme, “Collaborative Intelligence: The AI Testing Revolution.” Early Bird tickets are available until April 11—secure yours at https://iststc.com/!
Learn more about Tolgahan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tolgahan-bardakci/ . Let’s amplify testing together in Istanbul!
#ISTC2025 #SoftwareTesting #QualityAssurance #AIRevolution #TestAutomation #IstanbulEvents

Vahid Garousi is a globally recognized software testing strategist and senior consultant with over 27 years of experience, currently serving as a Professor of Software Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast. Since 1998, he has provided consulting and training to 50+ clients across countries like Canada, Türkiye, the UK, and Azerbaijan, enhancing testing efficiency for organizations such as Testinium, HAVELSAN, and AzInTelecom. His expertise spans test automation, AI-powered testing, and process improvement, with a track record of boosting test effectiveness by up to 30% in industry projects.
Vahid is the lead organizer of Azerbaijan Software Testing Days and a frequent speaker at events like TestIstanbul, SEETEST, and UCAAT, sharing practical insights from his extensive career. At ISTC 2025, he’ll deliver a hands-on tutorial on AI-assisted testing, drawing from his pioneering work with tools like Selenium, ChatGPT, and IBM Rational Functional Tester since 1998.