WA Monthly Wrap Up - March 2025

WA Branch explores trends in software testing

On the 18th of March the West Australian branch held a fantastic evening diving into the evolving world of software testing, with industry expert Don Sharp from TTC Global delivering an insightful session that reminded us why quality is everything in software development. Attendees explored the critical link between testing and quality, debunked common testing myths, and gained valuable insights into career opportunities and emerging trends like AI and automation. 
 
A huge thank you to Don and everyone who joined us at the ACS WA Training Room. Your engagement and thought-provoking discussions made the event a success. 
 
We also celebrated achievements within our ACS WA community including congratulating Spencer Klein MACS CP for achieving Certified Professional (CP) status—a testament to his expertise and commitment to the field. 
 
We also proudly acknowledged both Mentees and Mentors of the 2024 Mentoring Experience Program for their dedication to learning and leadership. Congratulations to our Mentees for completing the program and a big thank you to our Mentors for their guidance and support

Vale Professor Tony Watson FACS

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Professor Tony (Anthony) Watson, a distinguished figure in the Western Australian technology sector and a pillar of the WA Branch of the ACS.

Professor Watson was a leading cybersecurity researcher, government advisor, and pioneer in ICT, international education, and commercialisation. His contributions to the field were vast and impactful, spanning both academia and industry. 

As the Foundation Professor of Computer Science at Edith Cowan University and later as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), Tony played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of computer science education in Western Australia. His expertise extended beyond national borders, as he undertook consultancies and research projects across multiple countries, including Spain, France, Thailand, Korea, Singapore, UAE, Myanmar, and China.

Tony's dedication to the ACS was exemplary. He served as the Western Australia Branch Chair and was instrumental in establishing the ACS WA Security Centre of Expertise. This initiative positioned the ACS at the forefront of security advancement, fostering collaboration between academia and industry through monthly Special Interest Groups, workshops, and conferences. 

In addition to his significant contributions to the ACS, Tony also played a crucial role in the ACS Foundation. He served as the Chairman of the Western Australia Chapter of the ACS Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to advancing information technology education and research in Australia to the end.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Tony was awarded the status of Fellow of the ACS and Honorary Life Member in 2010. He was also honoured as an Achiever of the Year at the WA Information Technology and Telecommunications Awards for his leadership and high level of achievement in ICT at state, national, and international levels. 

Professor Watson's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of IT professionals and researchers. His vision, leadership, and commitment to advancing the field of information technology in Australia will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of working with him.

ACS would like to offer our condolences to Tony’s family, friends and colleagues. 

A funeral and celebration-of-life for Professor Tony Watson FACS will be held as follows:

• When: 11:30 am on Friday, 11 April 2025
• Where: East Chapel, Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, Whitfords Ave, Padbury, Western Australia

The service will be followed by a wake at 2:00 pm, venue to be confirmed

Launching Your Career - Insights for Internship Success 
 
 On Thursday 6 March the ACS WA Branch Emerging Professional Committee (EPC) hosted an inspiring event designed to help emerging professionals navigate the world of internships and kick-start their careers! 
 
Our incredible panellists — Sarah Maiden (ACS Foundation), Dien Tang (Diversus), Teshani Kumarasinghe (ACS WA Emerging Professionals Committee), and Mandeep Singh (former student) — shared invaluable insights on standing out, excelling, and making the most of an internship opportunity. 
 
Key insights included:

• The importance of proactive networking

• How to showcase skills beyond a résumé

• How to turn an internship into a long-term career opportunity 

• Communication skills are key to success

A big thank you to our event partner, the National Institute of Technology, for their generous support. We also extend our gratitude to the WA EPC for organising such a successful event.