QA professionals fear job loss despite embracing AI-powered testing

In the United States, Katalon released its 2025 State of Software Quality Report on March 31, 2025, revealing insights gathered from 1,500 QA professionals worldwide. The report highlights a paradox where testers who utilize AI tools express heightened fears of job replacement. Despite these concerns, the adoption of AI in QA practices is escalating, suggesting a crucial transformation in the industry. Many QA teams are investing in education and adopting AI-driven practices to enhance their skill sets and productivity. The report indicates that 67% of QA teams are committing to continuous learning as a means to close the skills gap present in the industry. This investment is critical in ensuring that QA professionals can effectively integrate AI technologies into their workflows. Furthermore, 53% have started using AI-driven testing methods to maintain competitiveness. This dynamic reflects an urgent need among QA professionals to adapt to the rapid advancements in technology and retain their relevance in an increasingly automated landscape. Additionally, the report emphasizes that fostering alignment between QA and overall business goals can significantly enhance customer retention rates. Notably, 77% of respondents acknowledge that such alignment improves outcomes. In light of the pressures to deliver software more quickly while ensuring quality, the QA field is evolving from a focus solely on execution to a more strategic role in business operations. Looking ahead, the report projects that the future of quality assurance will favor teams adept in combining AI technology with human insight. This shift is noted by Vu Lam, CEO of Katalon, who emphasizes that QA professionals are under increasing pressure to accelerate their processes without sacrificing standards. The findings underscore a recognition of the importance of QA in the landscape of software innovation, framing professionals as vital contributors to organizations seeking to leverage AI effectively while maintaining high levels of quality in their products.