Building a Stronger Workplace Culture: Our New Orleans Studio’s PULSE Initiative
Testronic’s New Orleans studio has long been working hard to create an inclusive, engaging, and empowering workplace – and this year that commitment to a positive workplace culture has further stepped up with the launch of its PULSE initiative.
Launched at the start of 2025 by the studio’s HR, Talent and Admin teams – including Alexis Landry, Sarah Avrard, Taylore Norton and Yaquana Sylve – PULSE was born out of a growing recognition that true workplace culture thrives when employees not only feel seen and heard, but when they’re actively helping to shape the environment they work in. This monthly initiative provides a structured opportunity for team members to share feedback, propose ideas, and influence studio culture by directly engaging with the leadership team.
The idea emerged from conversations about how to better connect the day-to-day experiences of our teams with decisions made at the leadership level. As a result, a company-wide application process took place in January, leading to the formation of a 15-member working group. This diverse team is now the beating heart of the initiative, regularly gathering insight from across the studio and translating it into actionable proposals.
The members of the PULSE working group highlighted a number of key areas that motivated them to join the team, including:
- Advocating for under-represented groups
- Building a more inclusive workplace
- Contributing to organisational change
- Strengthening team relationships and understanding
- Supporting personal growth in ED&I knowledge
The aspects of the work they are most passionate about include:
- Fostering a culture of open dialogue and safe spaces
- Providing resources and support for morale-boosting initiatives
- Organising inclusive events and programmes
They were also asked what they hope to achieve or change through PULSE’s work, and how being part of the programme will align with their personal or professional growth goals.
Gaining leadership skills and career development in general was a key factor for many, with David Sylvia offering: “Being a part of the PULSE initiative aligns with my own professional leadership goals. Through PULSE, I’d like to gain more leadership experience, as well as learn ways to better understand others and assist them with any challenges they may be facing.”
Others highlighted the opportunity to support the development of colleagues’ career pathways: “My goals are to continue to be a trusted voice, and to take every learning opportunity I can to better evolve the skills I already have. I’d also love to help others invest in themselves to get their best outcome too,” said Ricarda Faraci.
The opportunity to be a part of a team working for good both within the workplace, and beyond is also important to the PULSE group, as Malik Boutan highlighted: “I think PULSE is the perfect way to collaborate with others. Whether we’re looking at charity or volunteer events or employee-focused initiatives, I think there are many ways that people can come together through PULSE and make great things happen.”
As well as such passionate input from the team, what sets PULSE apart is the visible commitment from senior leadership – including Sean Shimoda, who leads the New Orleans team – who are actively engaged with the working group’s efforts. This collaboration sends a clear message: our leadership listens, values input, and acts on it.
And, Ricarda added: “Everyone’s day-to-day experience and growth can be that of opportunity here. PULSE can work to make sure that is true for everyone at Testronic.”
Beyond New Orleans, other Testronic locations are also working hard to engage and invest in their teams – ensuring all our studios nurture a culture where our testers feel empowered and aligned with the company’s direction.
