  Background. Women bring unique problem-solving skills to software
development, often favoring a holistic approach and attention to detail. In
software testing, precision and attention to detail are essential as
professionals explore system functionalities to identify defects. Recognizing
the alignment between these skills and women's strengths can derive strategies
for enhancing diversity in software engineering. Goal. This study investigates
the motivations behind women choosing careers in software testing, aiming to
provide insights into their reasons for entering and remaining in the field.
Method. This study used a cross-sectional survey methodology following
established software engineering guidelines, collecting data from women in
software testing to explore their motivations, experiences, and perspectives.
Findings. The findings reveal that women enter software testing due to
increased entry-level job opportunities, work-life balance, and even fewer
gender stereotypes. Their motivations to stay include the impact of delivering
high-quality software, continuous learning opportunities, and the challenges
the activities bring to them. However, inclusiveness and career development in
the field need improvement for sustained diversity. Conclusion. Preliminary yet
significant, these findings offer interesting insights for researchers and
practitioners towards the understanding of women's diverse motivations in
software testing and how this understanding is important for fostering
professional growth and creating a more inclusive and equitable industry
landscape.
