Game Changers: From Occupational Therapist to Software Tester - Solange Oliveira

At Fabamaq, we believe that many of the best tech stories begin outside the tech world. Stories of people who built solid careers in other fields and, at a certain point, decided to change the game.

In this edition of Game Changers, we share Solange Oliveira's story. After ten years working as an Occupational Therapist, she chose to take on a new challenge in technology. Driven by curiosity, a desire to grow, and the need to explore new ways of solving problems, she is now part of Fabamaq as a Software Tester, a role where precision, analytical thinking, and attention to detail truly make a difference.

During her years as an Occupational Therapist, Solange worked closely with people, followed rehabilitation processes, observed behaviours, tested hypotheses, and adjusted strategies. It was a field where she felt confident, secure, and professionally fulfilled. Still, over time, she began to feel that something was no longer aligned.

“For a long time, I hesitated. I had invested a lot, personally and professionally, in occupational therapy,” she explains. “But as time went on, it became increasingly clear that change was inevitable. I felt more and more that I might have taken that step earlier.”

At that point, change stopped being a distant idea and became a conscious decision.

When technology starts asking questions

Even in a profession deeply rooted in human relationships, technology was always part of Solange’s daily work. Digital tools and technical solutions were frequently used, but they didn’t always fully meet real rehabilitation needs.

“I often relied on technological solutions and realised that they weren’t always enough,” she says. “That sparked a growing interest in understanding how to improve processes and solve problems in a more practical way.”

What drew her to technology was the combination of logic, analysis, and real-world impact. “I wanted to use my analytical thinking differently, understand the logic behind applications, and explore ways to make systems work properly.”

The decision to change: with fear and planning

This career transition was far from impulsive. It required organisation, focus, and difficult choices. Investing in technical skills meant dedicating almost all her time to learning and putting some personal aspects of life on hold.

“I was at a stage where I was very independent and knew that making this leap would require a different kind of family and financial planning,” she admits. 

Learning Python was one of her first structured steps. As her interest deepened, she joined the Switch programme in 2023, where she found the solid foundation needed to move forward with confidence.

Starting over outside the comfort zone

Returning to intensive study was one of the biggest challenges. “It was a course that took up almost 24 hours a day,” she recalls. Entering the job market brought another reality check: leaving a field where she was experienced and respected to start from scratch.

“When you’ve been in the same field for a long time, you feel secure,” she shares. “When I changed careers, I lost that. I felt like I was starting a completely new life, far outside my comfort zone.”

What doesn’t disappear, transforms

Despite changing fields, much of Solange’s previous experience is still present in her work today as a Software Tester at Fabamaq.

“From occupational therapy, I brought attention to detail, a strong sense of responsibility, and analytical skills,” she explains. “Working with people meant observing, testing hypotheses, documenting everything carefully, and collaborating with professionals from different backgrounds.”

Today, those same skills help her identify unexpected behaviours in games, validate features consistently, and communicate issues clearly to the team.

Growing within Fabamaq

Solange’s integration into Fabamaq was gradual and positive. “I was very well welcomed from the beginning. The team was always available and made me feel comfortable asking questions, observing, and experimenting.”

At first, she felt like a “fish out of water”, something she sees as completely natural. Over time, she gained autonomy and confidence. What surprised her most was the complexity of the final product.

“I had no idea how many layers were involved before reaching the final product, nor about the diversity of markets and the level of rigour required throughout the entire process.”

Small steps, meaningful achievements

There wasn’t a single defining moment, but rather a series of small milestones. “The most meaningful one was realising that I was no longer just learning, but also contributing.”

Letting go of the constant need for help and beginning to trust her own work marked her biggest achievement so far.

​

Looking ahead without regrets

Today, Solange has no doubts about her decision. “There has never been any regret. My motivation has always been to invest more in this field, not less.”

To anyone considering a career change into technology, she offers honest advice:
“Don’t wait for the moment when you think ‘I should have started earlier. Try things out, practise, and set small goals. Learning takes time, and you’ll never know everything, and that’s okay.”

Her story shows that what we choose at one stage of life doesn’t have to define us forever. With curiosity, organisation, and a willingness to learn, it’s possible to build a new path, even outside your comfort zone.

Being part of Fabamaq

For Solange, being part of Fabamaq means adaptability and a strong sense of collective purpose. “Technology is constantly evolving and demands change.”

More than just a team, she highlights a shared mindset. “Even though we belong to specific teams, we support each other’s achievements. Goals and results are shared by everyone.”

A story of change built with time, awareness, and courage  and another example of how, at Fabamaq, changing the game often starts with changing direction.

Discover more Game Changers at Fabamaq​

Would you like to explore more stories of people who changed careers and found their place in tech? Read also the journey of Carla Santos, who left Nutrition to become a Software Test Engineer at a casino games company. Her story proves that reinventing a professional path is possible, and that changing direction can truly be the jackpot.

And if you’re also looking for new professional challenges in a tech company that values talent, continuous learning, and innovation, explore the open opportunities at Fabamaq and take the next step in your career.