Josue Becerra Rico: From embedded software in Mexico to testing IoT solutions in Luleå

In northern Sweden, access to the right skills remains a real challenge. Sometimes that means attracting people from elsewhere. Just as often, it’s about making better use of the competence that is already there.

Josue Becerra Rico’s journey reflects both sides of that picture.

Originally from Mexico, Josue came to Europe through his master’s studies and eventually chose to stay in northern Sweden. After several years working as an embedded software developer in the telecom industry, he took the next step in his career through A-hub and started his assignment as a Hardware Tester at Careium in Luleå.

Josue has a background in physics and engineering from Mexico, where he began his career as an embedded software developer in the aviation industry. After a few years, he was selected for the Erasmus Mundus master’s program GENIAL, focusing on Green Networking and Cloud Computing. The program took him across France, England and Sweden, but it was the north of Sweden that stood out.

“I fell in love with northern Sweden, winter sports and the long days in summer, so it was a natural step for me to stay and look for a job.”

After graduating, he continued working as an embedded software developer in the telecom industry for more than three years, before taking the next step in his career together with A-hub.

Testing products where reliability matters

Today, Josue works as a Hardware Tester at Careium, testing products such as mobile wearables and home hubs.

“We have different products such as mobile wearables (Amy, Abby) and home hubs (Eliza), and each of them has its own functionalities and challenges as a tester. Sometimes there are sets of tests that have been done before and I just need to replicate, but sometimes there are new functionalities or bugs, so I need to think about a way to systematically perform a test that ensures that the device is working properly.”

Some days include going out for a walk to test GPS accuracy and geofencing features. Other times, it’s about verifying calls across different protocols like 2G, 4G and VoIP.

Why this role stood out

What made Josue say yes to the assignment was the combination of technologies and the opportunity to work more hands-on with hardware.

“The fact that the role required knowledge in communication protocols, IoT and testing was very interesting to me. Also that it involved hardware and not only software.”

At the same time, another aspect stood out.

“Knowing that my work helps elderly people and makes their lives safer is a very positive aspect of this job.”

Challenges that drive development

One of the most rewarding parts so far has been working with more advanced radio frequency testing.

“Finding all the tools, building the testing rig, setting the configuration and performing the test was challenging but fun.”

The team around the work

Beyond the technical aspects, Josue highlights the importance of the team and the environment.

“I really enjoy going to the office and meeting my colleagues. I still have a lot to learn, and having support around me makes things easier.”

His experience working with A-hub has also been a positive one throughout the journey.

“My consultant manager Sandra has been very supportive, we have good communication and I feel very good about being employed by A-hub.”

Stories like Josue’s show what can happen when the right experience meets the right context. For us, it often comes down to a few things in practice, for example understanding what the role actually requires, staying close throughout the assignment, and making sure there’s a dialogue that works in both directions. That’s what creates the conditions for both the individual and the team to develop over time.

We are proud to have Josue as a part of out team!