Lora Carter
Dayton
Summary
- Strategic Test Leadership: Proven ability to provide strategic test management oversight for complex portfolios of software and hardware initiatives, balancing agile delivery with adherence to stringent government or industry standards.
- Agile & Waterfall Software Development Expertise: Extensive experience in leading and transforming testing activities within both Agile and Waterfall frameworks, driving rapid decision-making and continuous improvement.
- Test Automation & Tool Implementation: Adept at championing and implementing test automation strategies and test management tools (e.g., TestRail, HP-ALM, Jira), resulting in increased test coverage, reduced testing cycle times, and data-driven decision-making.
- Team Leadership & Mentoring: Proven leadership skills in managing, mentoring, and coaching test teams, fostering a collaborative environment and contributing to team member professional development. Managed global test teams.
- Process Improvement & Optimization: Demonstrated success in identifying and addressing process gaps through thorough gap analysis, process improvement initiatives, and workflow optimization, leading to increased efficiency and effectiveness.
- Requirements Management & Risk Mitigation: Expertise in requirements ingestion, analysis, and traceability, coupled with proactive risk analysis and mitigation strategies to ensure project success and minimize potential issues.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Sr.Test and Evaluation Manager
Credence Management Solutions
Dayton
03.2023 - Current
- Provided strategic test management oversight for a portfolio of rapid innovation sustainment programs in the Digital Architecture and Advanced Manufacturing areas, including CBM+ and Maintenance Digital Ecosystem.
- CBM+ (Condition Based Maintenance Plus) applies Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence to analyze and predict part failures across multiple airframes (B-1B, C-5, KC-135, KC-46, C-130, F-35, T-7). Implemented the use of Jira to track and manage USG led Acceptance Testing, resulting in a shortened test execution time frame (3 weeks to 3 days) and real time test execution reporting via electronic dashboard to enable sound decision making for fielding releases from the OEM.
- Digital Maintenance Ecosystem initiative utilizes the Google Cloud platform to bring digital solutions to flight line maintenance. Developed test strategies coordinating closely with Google to plan and execute System Integration and User Acceptance Tests. Facilitated joint testing sessions with the OEM to accelerate test timelines. Utilized Jira to create a reusable test case repository, test cycles for execution and a test progress dashboard, fostering data-driven decision making.
- Served as the recognized Software Testing and Agile Software Development Subject Matter Expert, guiding teams on effective strategies for accelerating test timelines.
- Contributed to the design and creation of a new requirements ingestion software solution, facilitating the efficient intake of potential projects.
- Possess active security clearance.
Test Manager
Stratacache
Dayton
12.2021 - 03.2023
- Managed and provided technical direction to a team of 8-12 testers focused on the quality assurance of Stratacache Quick Service Restaurant Digital Menu solutions.
- Enhanced test process visibility and accountability by championing the adoption of TestRail, enabling data-driven decision-making for product releases.
- Mentored and coached test team members on software testing methodologies, contributing to their professional development and the overall effectiveness of the team.
- Orchestrated test resource allocation across multiple client engagements and releases, ensuring timely and thorough testing of complex product configurations.
Test Manager
Credence Management Solutions
Dayton
06.2020 - 12.2021
- Innovated test strategies and processes for the Siemens Teamcenter implementation for T-7A, ensuring efficient and effective testing aligned with project goals and Agile principles.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to map end-to-end processes for CSO Software Engineering, identifying bottlenecks and optimizing workflows for increased productivity.
- Transformed testing activities into a seamless part of the Agile framework , managing sprint testing, release testing, and user validation testing to provide rapid decision making
- Collaborated with the lead system engineer to review the Risk Management Framework (cybersecurity) to provide evidence of compliance or discovery of potential risk.
Software Quality Analyst
Ingage Partners (Caresource Client)
Dayton
07.2018 - 06.2020
- Test Analyst for the Clinical Programs and Incentives Team (primary) and other development teams, ensuring application releases met quality standards.
- Developed and executed comprehensive test plans based on user stories within an Agile development framework.
- Managed test case design and execution within HP-ALM (QC), utilizing the tool for defect tracking and test reporting.
- Designed and executed complex SQL queries to validate data transformations and integrity within the ETL processes.
Sr. Project Manager, Technical Quality Assurance
Vantiv
Mason
03.2016 - 06.2018
- Provided leadership and direction to the test team for the Core Processing Train, ensuring the execution of comprehensive testing strategies.
- Directed the implementation of TQA best practices, enhancing the overall quality and reliability of software releases.
- Championed the strategic adoption of test automation, resulting in increased test coverage and reduced testing cycles.
- Oversaw end-to-end testing efforts, ensuring the successful validation of software functionality and performance.
- Conducted technical assessments of contract resources to determine their suitability for integration within the TQA organization.
Software Quality Manager
Resurgent Capital Services
Cincinnati
02.2013 - 03.2016
- Established and led a new Software Quality Assurance (SQA) group for the Custom Software Solutions department within IT, building a dedicated team to ensure software quality.
- Managed a team of 3 test analysts , driving all testing efforts through QA and User Acceptance Testing (UAT) to deliver high-quality software releases.
- Implemented TestRail , streamlining test case management and improving test execution efficiency across projects.
- Coordinated and managed the enterprise-wide testing effort for the IE11 upgrade, ensuring seamless transition and minimal disruption for all users.
- Provided on-site support for User Acceptance Testing (UAT) , facilitating effective user feedback and issue resolution.
- Initiated and led a Process Improvement Analysis effort , identifying opportunities to optimize development and testing workflows.
- Conducted hands-on testing of applications for the mortgage line of business, ensuring compliance with business requirements and quality standards
Lead QA Engineer
Cincom
Cincinnati
06.2011 - 11.2012
- Drove quality assurance as the Test Lead for the Cincom Document Services product line, ensuring timely and successful software releases.
- Managed and mentored a global test team , including 1 local and 8 offshore resources, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Orchestrated defect triage and project scheduling using MS Project, maintaining project momentum and ensuring on-time delivery.
- Utilized MS Visual Studio Team Foundation Server (TFS) to track project tasks and implement Agile principles within the development process.
- Improved project outcomes by introducing software risk analysis to proactively identify and mitigate potential issues.
- Identified and addressed process gaps through thorough gap analysis, leading to improved testing efficiency and effectiveness.
- Directed the activities for Cincom Document Services to reduce defect counts and drive down support calls.
Sr. QA Test Engineer
Kroger
Cincinnati
06.2009 - 06.2011
- Orchestrated testing efforts for multiple concurrent projects, ensuring alignment with project goals and timely delivery of high-quality software.
- Provided critical input into offshore resource planning and coordination, optimizing the allocation of testing resources.
- Drove efficient defect management processes across multiple projects, contributing to the timely resolution of software issues.
- Proactively facilitated risk analysis activities , helping project teams identify and mitigate potential problems.
- Generated and disseminated informative metrics and quality status reports , providing stakeholders with valuable insights into project health.
- Defined and documented comprehensive test plans at the program level, encompassing multiple systems and interfaces to ensure complete coverage.
QA Tester
First Group America (Contract)
Cincinnati
11.2008 - 02.2009
- Developed and executed test cases for JD Edwards Accounts Payable and Fixed Assets modules, ensuring accurate and reliable system functionality.
- Reported and tracked software defects using Bugzilla, facilitating efficient issue resolution and contributing to improved software quality.
- Prepared comprehensive test summary reports, providing stakeholders with clear insights into testing progress and results.
- Served as the User Acceptance Test (UAT) Coordinator and Lead, guiding users through testing processes and ensuring alignment with business requirements.
QA Test Lead
Fifth Third Bank
Cincinnati
03.2006 - 11.2008
- Led test activities for Business to Consumer projects, including 53.com, Internet Banking, Jeanie Telephone Banking, ATM, and eBanking, ensuring high-quality and reliable applications.
- Managed the complete testing lifecycle , from test planning and test case design to execution and defect management. Served as the Defect Review Board chair.
- Test projects I led were chosen for internal and federal audits of software development test processes to demonstrate compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Provided oversight and mentorship to other leads and test analysts on the team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- Utilized Test Director 8.0 for comprehensive test management and reporting.
- Coordinated testing efforts with offsite QA teams in India, ensuring seamless integration and efficient resource utilization.
Senior Consultant II
Cardinal Solutions Group
Cincinnati
08.2004 - 03.2006
- Test Analyst | Brokerage Clearing Agent Conversion Project: Executed test cases and meticulously documented test execution details and defects using Test Director. Oversaw the entry of test trades in a live production environment and analyzed results, providing daily status updates to the client test manager.
- Test Lead | Product Lifecycle Management Software Application Projects: Led test planning, execution, and reporting for multiple releases of a product lifecycle management software, including initial launch and maintenance releases. Served as the primary point of contact between the Quality Assurance Manager and Development team, facilitating communication and defect management. Held reviews of test documentation, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
- Curriculum Developer | Quality Assurance Boot Camp: Led an internal project to develop a Quality Assurance Boot Camp curriculum, incorporating QA best practices from Rational Unified Process and leveraging personal experience in test planning, execution, and management.
- Team Lead | Quality Assurance Consultants, Project Services: Provided guidance and mentorship as the Team Lead for Quality Assurance consultants in the Project Services practice.
Test Manager Consultant
Atos Origin
Cincinnati
12.2003 - 08.2004
- Test Analyst | Third-Party Software Implementation: Developed and executed test cases for System Test, specifically targeting the Retail Quote and Purchase functionalities, during the integration of a third-party software package into the client's existing system. Test case creation involved extensive user interviews to capture current business processes and accurately mirror them within the new system.
- QA Manager | Systems Engineering Process Group: Defined and documented software development and project processes aligned with client quality initiatives (CMM Level III and General Motors Software Development Process - 21), as a member of the Systems Engineering Process Group. Provided mentorship to other QA resources on the project, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
Quality Assurance Manager
Navigator Group
Dayton
09.2003 - 12.2003
- Established and led a new Quality Assurance (QA) department , building the foundation for software quality excellence within the company.
- Developed strategic short- and long-term goals for introducing comprehensive QA test procedures and practices, aligning with business objectives.
- Designed and implemented robust software change control procedures , ensuring the integrity and stability of software releases.
- Managed the complete testing lifecycle for four software products, tracking deviations, and providing weekly status reports to the Senior Management Team.
Senior Test Analyst
LexisNexis
Dayton
04.2001 - 09.2003
- Spearheaded test strategy development, test plan creation, test case design, and requirements traceability matrix implementation for multiple projects. Executed test cases and meticulously documented defects using the Webstar system. Utilized Visual Source Safe for change control of all test deliverables. Performed regression testing using SilkTest 5.0 and developed test schedules using MS Project.
- Led a four-person test team responsible for the rapid testing of custom website development for clients, ensuring the completion of approximately 20 websites per day within a 48-hour window.
- Provided mentorship and conducted peer reviews of test deliverables, promoting quality and consistency within the team.
Test Manager
CLT Company
Dayton
12.1999 - 08.2002
- Mentored Test Team members to enhance their technical skills and understanding of QA best practices.
- Developed and introduced innovative test, release management, and upgrade strategies , improving the efficiency and effectiveness of software delivery.
- Monitored test progress and ensured data integrity , guaranteeing the quality and reliability of test results
Senior Consultant/Manager
Marchfirst
Cincinnati
08.2000 - 04.2001
- Web Testing Lead: Spearheaded the quality assurance efforts for a new internet site launch, developing a comprehensive test strategy, writing detailed test plans and test cases, and executing test cases to ensure optimal performance and user experience. Leveraged SilkTest for efficient capture and playback of test cases during regression testing.
- Functional Requirements Analyst: Conducted thorough client interviews to elicit and document functional requirements for an internet project, ensuring alignment with business needs and objectives. Obtained customer sign-off on requirements, establishing a clear foundation for project success.
- Team Lead | Risk Management: Provided leadership and guidance to the Risk Management team of consultants, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
Test Manager - Consultant
WPAFB
Fairborn
07.1998 - 12.1999
- Conducted independent test validation to support the certification of systems as Y2K compliant, ensuring adherence to critical standards and regulations.
- Developed comprehensive Test Analysis reports in accordance with Y2K Program office standards, providing clear and concise documentation of testing results.
- Determined system readiness for validation by thoroughly auditing test results and inspecting documentation, ensuring adherence to compliance requirements.
- Provided test planning and leadership for end-to-end scenario testing, coordinating test personnel across three Air Force bases to ensure comprehensive test coverage.
Business Analyst/Associate Systems Engineer
EDS, Electronic Data Systems
Dayton
06.1989 - 07.1998
- System Engineer: Managed the complete lifecycle, Analysis, Design, Construction, Testing and Implementation of the Collections application using Pacbase, a COBOL generator programming language. Created comprehensive Requirements, Business Design, and Technical Design documentation. Developed detailed Unit Test plans and provided expert technical support to Quality Assurance and end users during the Customer Acceptance Test phase.
- Business Analyst | Quality Assurance Department: Drove and created test plans, test cases and metrics for high level testing. Drove a team to focus and improved quality and efficiency. Acted as a QA and Technical Lead to improve design and development for systems.
- Business Analyst | Customer Call Center: Provided continuous availability for client for system support.
Education
High School Diploma -
Nelsonville York High School
Nelsonville, OH05-1983
Skills
- Agile and Waterfall Software Development Methodologies
- Test Management
- Software Quality Assurance Best Practice
- Test Tool Implementation and Adoption
- Team Leadership
- Mentoring and Coaching
Timeline
Sr.Test and Evaluation Manager
Credence Management Solutions
03.2023 - Current
Test Manager
Stratacache
12.2021 - 03.2023
Test Manager
Credence Management Solutions
06.2020 - 12.2021
Software Quality Analyst
Ingage Partners (Caresource Client)
07.2018 - 06.2020
Sr. Project Manager, Technical Quality Assurance
Vantiv
03.2016 - 06.2018
Software Quality Manager
Resurgent Capital Services
02.2013 - 03.2016
Lead QA Engineer
Cincom
06.2011 - 11.2012
Sr. QA Test Engineer
Kroger
06.2009 - 06.2011
QA Tester
First Group America (Contract)
11.2008 - 02.2009
QA Test Lead
Fifth Third Bank
03.2006 - 11.2008
Senior Consultant II
Cardinal Solutions Group
08.2004 - 03.2006
Test Manager Consultant
Atos Origin
12.2003 - 08.2004
Quality Assurance Manager
Navigator Group
09.2003 - 12.2003
Senior Test Analyst
LexisNexis
04.2001 - 09.2003
Senior Consultant/Manager
Marchfirst
08.2000 - 04.2001
Test Manager
CLT Company
12.1999 - 08.2002
Test Manager - Consultant
WPAFB
07.1998 - 12.1999
Business Analyst/Associate Systems Engineer
EDS, Electronic Data Systems
06.1989 - 07.1998
High School Diploma -
Nelsonville York High School