Nagarro and ETC Advance Neurodiverse Talent Development in Austria’s IT Sector

Nagarro and ETC Advance Neurodiverse Talent Development in Austria’s IT Sector

(IN BRIEF) Nagarro and Enterprise Training Center have announced the continuation and expansion of the TestingPro initiative in Austria, developing it into the country’s first dual IT training program for people on the autism spectrum. Starting in spring 2026, the program combines technical training, certification preparation, mentoring, and extended company placements to address skills shortages in software testing while creating sustainable career opportunities. Building on a strong track record since 2015, the enhanced model aims to scale neurodiverse talent development and support long-term employment in the IT sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) VIENNA, 21-Jan-2026— /EuropaWire/ — Nagarro, a global digital engineering company, and Austria-based Enterprise Training Center (ETC) have confirmed the continuation and expansion of the TestingPro initiative in Austria, transforming it into the country’s first dual IT training program specifically designed for people on the autism spectrum. The next cohort of participants is scheduled to begin in spring 2026.

The program responds to a growing mismatch in the Austrian labor market. While tens of thousands of people on the autism spectrum possess skills such as analytical thinking, precision, and strong concentration, many face barriers to employment. At the same time, the IT sector continues to experience a shortage of qualified professionals, particularly in software testing and quality assurance.

Christoph Becker (left, ETC) and Hannes Färberböck (right, Nagarro) © Philipp Grausam

TestingPro is designed to connect these two realities. The revised program combines structured technical training with individual mentoring, coaching, and extended practical placements within companies. Participants receive targeted instruction in software testing and quality management and are prepared for internationally recognized ISTQB® certification, followed by several months of hands-on experience in real project environments.

The updated program follows a dual training model and runs for approximately eight months. It begins with a matching and preparation phase, during which participants are selected and paired with partner companies. This is followed by an intensive professional training phase focused on testing methodologies and certification. The final phase places participants in companies for a multi-month internship, supported by ongoing mentoring, coaching, and regular reflection sessions aimed at facilitating long-term employment.

Since its original launch in 2015, TestingPro has trained around 100 participants, with approximately 80 percent securing employment in the IT sector. The newly expanded structure represents the most comprehensive evolution of the program to date and is designed to make the model scalable and sustainable beyond individual placements.

For participating companies, the program offers early access to motivated talent with demonstrated strengths in quality assurance, direct involvement in real-world projects, and structured support through mentors and coaches. Public funding mechanisms further reduce entry barriers, while early collaboration increases the likelihood of long-term hiring.

Beyond addressing immediate skills shortages, the initiative highlights the professional value of neurodiverse teams. Practical experience within companies allows individual strengths to become visible in everyday work contexts, helping employers better understand how neurodiversity can contribute to higher quality outcomes in software testing and digital projects.

ETC brings extensive experience in digital skills training to the partnership, delivering a broad portfolio of IT courses and certifications across Austria through classroom-based, online, hybrid, and in-house formats. Nagarro contributes its global expertise in digital engineering and software testing, supporting the program through its international testing practice and industry network.

Together, Nagarro and ETC aim to establish TestingPro as a long-term pathway into sustainable IT careers while supporting companies in building diverse, inclusive, and high-performing teams.

About Nagarro

Nagarro, a global digital engineering leader, helps clients become fluidic, innovative, digital-first companies and thus win in their markets. The company is distinguished by its entrepreneurial, agile, and global character, its CARING mindset, and its Fluidic Intelligence vision. Nagarro employs around 17,700 people in 39 countries. For more information, visit www.nagarro.com.

FRA: NA9 (SDAX/TecDAX, ISIN DE000A3H2200, WKN A3H220) 

For inquiries, please contact press@nagarro.com. 

SOURCE: NAGARRO