The past 50 years have been about building a better future—and making a positive impact on the way people everywhere work, live, and play.

So, as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we wanted to spotlight a few of the people behind the progress. The trailblazers, groundbreakers, and go-getters here at Microsoft, who’ve invested their time, talent, and passion into empowering others to realize their dreams.

Because change needs makers!

When play has the power to heal

When everyone plays, we all win. Just ask Jesse who hosted an Xbox event at New Orleans Children’s Hospital. He discovered firsthand that gaming is more than pixels and controllers—it’s about connection. As kids emerged from their rooms to play, laughter really was the best medicine. Jesse’s work is a reminder that even in the toughest circumstances, play has the power to heal.

Because games need changers.

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Youngest Microsoft software engineer ever

Mentorship can shape your career. It can inspire growth. It may even inspire you to graduate high school before you can drive a car, so you can work on the projects you love.

All of the above is true for software engineer Rayyan. Interning at 14, hired at 16, he became the youngest software engineer at the company ever—proving age isn’t an obstacle to achieving your dreams. But Rayyan says dreaming big is better with a mentor, a trusted guide to support your goals.

Now in his 20s, he’s spent half his life at Microsoft and is just getting started. He’s already looking forward to giving back and training the next generation, his peers.

Because go needs getters.

A person with long hair in a light jacket smiles against a pink background featuring a flower, emojis, and a digital name tag labeled "Rekha.
Challenge accepted

Hackathons celebrate the spirit of competition, the power of collaboration, and the positive impact technology can make on communities of all kinds.

Over a decade ago, Rekha and her hackathon team took on a bold challenge from former NFL football player Steve Gleason, who lives with ALS: to make his wheelchair move with his eyes. Armed with Kinect sensors, duct tape, and determination, the team got to work. By the end of the day, they had built a prototype for the Eye Gaze Wheelchair, which could be propelled forward with just one look.

Team Gleason won the hackathon that day and showed the world how far tech can go when it comes to breaking barriers and building a better world for all.

Because risk needs takers.

A smiling man surrounded by pixelated gaming icons, including a bee, heart, creeper, TNT block, and a cursor pointing to a text box labeled "Torfi.
Choose your own adventure

Everyone knows Minecraft is the ultimate blocky sandbox game, where you can build pretty much anything you dream up. Now, meet one of the creative directors behind it, Torfi. As a 1980s kid growing up in Iceland, he made games just for fun. Today, he leads the creative on Minecraft entertainment projects, such as immersive experiences and animated series—not to mention producing the upcoming A Minecraft Movie in theatres April 4.

Torfi knows Minecraft players create without limits, but he didn’t know just how much it meant to them. He soon found out at the film preview. Fans of all ages shouted in unison “I am Steve” after Jack Black’s fiery on-screen entrance as Minecraft’s Steve. Because Steve is every player in the Minecraft universe—full of potential.

Because change needs makers.

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Match point: AI

If you watched any games last weekend, you probably focused on the plays, the score, or maybe even a dancing Pop Tart. But did you notice the tech behind your team?

Tech plays a bigger role in sports than ever before. The way they’re coached, watched, played, and experienced by fans the world over. Just ask Ankita from the strategic partnerships team, “It’s not so much about winning—but the ‘why’ behind the win.” Like in her favorite, tennis, where AI brings more visibility to the game—up-leveling technique from start to finish and empowering fans to connect with their heroes.

Now Ankita wants to bring AI to even more athletes. And with partners like Billie Jean King and the Women’s World Cup of Tennis on board, it’s game on!

Because games need changers.

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What do cats and tech have in common?

The Cats of Microsoft calendar of course!

What’s the big deal? Thousands of irresistibly cute cat pics for one. But more importantly, over a million dollars generated since its start—and the difference that’s made on animal shelters across the US caring for kitties in need.

Harnessing the goodness of GIVE, our annual matching donation drive, calendar cofounder Susan’s quirky little idea has turned into major impact. Improving the quality of life for countless cuddly friends with services like microchipping—not to mention making life better for the people who adopt them.

Now everyone wants their cat to have a special spot in the calendar.

Because days need dreamers.

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Between two worlds

Knowing who you are shapes every part of life—and bringing that identity to work can be one of the most powerful things you do. For Dan, it was his grandmothers, Nana Chick and Nana Walker, who taught him what it meant to be Māori and proud of his Indigenous New Zealand culture. He didn’t learn it at school. He didn’t see it valued in his childhood at all. So, he went on a journey with his elders to understand it. Now, he couldn’t be prouder to bring his heritage to work.

In 2023, Dan brought together Microsoft’s Māori partners so they could share their stories and show everyone how Indigenous values can empower meaningful change in tech. As senior partner development manager, he knows that innovation and inclusion go hand in hand—and he can’t wait to bring these values to AI for the next generation. All thanks to the wisdom of teachers like his nanas.

Because trails need blazers.

The tool that changed everything … but never launched

Not every project sees the light of day. But even failures can shape your path.

That was true for Emily, an intern working on Power Apps Canvas Designer, the greatest data visualization tool you’ve never seen—because the feature never made it to market.

Emily invested countless hours, but she saw it as an opportunity to build her skills and build her team. Now, in a full-circle moment, she’s leading that very team as a manager—and they’re at it again. A brand-new visualization tool powered by Copilot is bringing a once-unfinished vision to life. For Emily, it’s a step forward and another chance to grow.

Because careers need builders.

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A helping hand across the world

Cloud gaming bridges distances—from multiplayer screens to passing a controller to someone in another country. In fact, that’s how Kennedy helped his brother smash a tough level from halfway across the world. 

But he says the real gamechanger is free access on the cloud, knowing firsthand that cost can be a barrier to play. It’s what inspired him to work with Xbox hackathon teams to develop more unique cloud-gaming experiences. And he’s excited to make every device an Xbox—and everyone a player.

Because ground needs breakers.

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Found in translation

Patty knows firsthand what tech can do to expand opportunity. So, when charter schools in the US migrated to Microsoft 365, she made sure Teams translation was a big part. Growing up with English as a second language herself, she wants young language learners to know that opportunity won’t be lost.

Because knowledge need sharers.

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How to invent the next big thing

We’ve all felt the impact of AI—the awe of what it makes possible every day and the excitement of not really knowing what’s next. Jithin knows. His team changed the world while building the most powerful supercomputer.

It took dozens of Azure teams working in perfect sync to bring the supercomputer to life. But the real breakthrough? Harnessing it to train OpenAI’s first large-scale cluster. The results were bound to make headlines. But when they saw the results—they knew they were on the cusp of a new era.

Because worlds need builders.

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Empower one, empower many

We all have our own ways of working, and we need tech that adapts to us—not the other way around. Inclusive design benefits us all. “Many technologies designed for people with disabilities ultimately benefit everyone,” explains Claudia, a product marketing manager who worked on the first accessible accessories for Surface.

For Claudia, inclusive design isn’t an afterthought—it’s a commitment. Living with invisible disabilities herself, she believes the disability community should be part of the design process from the start. Because when everyone has the tools to thrive, our unique contributions shine.

Because design needs thinkers.

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When you thought you’d seen it all

Five years ago, we all learned a new way of working during the pandemic. Loren was right there with us—a data scientist who thought he’d seen it all . . . until he hadn’t. Tasked with analyzing tech usage during lockdown, he and his team tapped into telemetry from 1.4 billion Windows devices and petabytes of IDEAS data, turning raw data into critical insights for senior leadership.

To help people navigate the new normal, they built the Work Trend Index—a roadmap through the chaos of a changing workplace. Today, that index is still shaping insights. But now it’s focused on AI and productivity, the next normal.

Because problems need solvers.

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Making a great education even better

Ryohei knew the education system in Japan was top-notch, but he had a real passion to improve access. So, with nothing but a dream and a plan to put a device in every student’s hands—he helped make it a reality. Before long, Surface devices were transforming the way everyone learned.

And the rewards are clear. Students are using Surface for more hands-on assignments like building custom apps, while teachers are using AI for more efficiency in class. Next, Ryohei hopes to see AI transform classrooms across Asia, empowering educators and students alike. He knows lasting impact is possible when passion fuels progress.

Because waves need makers.

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Around the world in 27 years and six days

Throughout the 1990s, Cyril was training users on Windows and Office 95 as a student. Then, before he knew it, he was hired full-time and found himself driving a dusty VW bus across Sub-Saharan Africa, working with ISPs to launch Internet Explorer 4.0. Along the way, he mastered the art of listening—really listening—to what people need, making sure to enjoy the ride. Now, as a VP leading Microsoft Azure and industry cloud, Cyril still thrives on adventure, learning from partners, and embracing what’s next. His advice to aspiring leaders? Work on what excites you, don’t over plan, build a strong network—and above all, have fun.

Because change needs makers.

Turning data into care

To empower customers, you need to understand their challenges firsthand. You can’t support someone without knowing what they need—that’s where the power of analytics comes in. It keeps businesses informed and growing. And for Josette, a cloud solutions architect, helping customers get AI-ready and strengthening their analytics is the highest form of care.

Her customers struggle with scattered data, piecing together insights from multi-cloud systems. But with a platform like Fabric, they bring it all together in one place. Josette and her team use powerful tools to track their own progress. Because when you know, you know—and innovate. Smarter solutions, deeper insights, and a commitment to go above and beyond for the people who rely on us.

Because care needs givers.

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Skill up to scale up

Skilling is everything—it transforms lives, opening doors to achieving more. 7 million people have already forged careers in tech, thanks to Conecta+, a platform that offered Brazilians professional training to enter the job market, plus connections and a lot of motivation. Patricia was a big part of bringing it to life. Her impact even earned her a Platinum Award in 2023, and the skilling platform has evolved with an extra focus on AI as ConectAI.

But for her, it’s personal. She knows the power of opportunity, navigating 15 years, seven roles, across three organizations—all while raising a family and continuously learning. Her proudest achievement? Helping people find their path and thrive.

Because paths need finders.

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Here’s to the fix that saved your pumpkin pie 

When Recipes.com timed out right before Thanksgiving 2012, every single holiday pie, roast turkey, and vegetable side dish was at risk. Until CSS support engineer Stacy Gray stepped in to save the day with advice on a critical fix. Just in time for families everywhere to enjoy their annual feast! That’s Stacy—she troubleshoots because she cares.

Because problems need solvers.

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Remember when software came in boxes?

Michael does. Back in the 2000s, it took his team thousands of hours of coding to get Microsoft Office out of the package and onto the cloud. And they took everything digital. Seattle on the cloud. Beijing on the cloud. Taipei, too. Now, as a leader at the Taiwan Engineering site, Michael’s getting the next generation of engineers ready to shape the future—behind every click, a collaboration.

Because worlds need builders.

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Make what’s next

What do a sickle cell diagnosis app, a camera that detects invasive species, and a text-to-Braille device have in common? They were all patented by women inventors with pro bono support from the “Make What’s Next” Microsoft Patent Program. Founded by Jenny in 2016, this one-of-a-kind initiative fueled by Microsoft volunteers gives women STEM inventors from underrepresented communities the support they need to protect their IP and bring their brilliant ideas to life.

Because dreams need chasers.

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America’s most wanted software

Azure helped track down three of the most sought-after cybercriminals. It all began when Ujval built an analytics system to protect seniors from online threats. Knowing firsthand the devastating impact of cybercrime on his own family, he doubled-down—reducing case processing time from weeks to minutes, enabling the US Federal Task Force to nab the bad players. It just so happens that three of them were on the FBI’s Top 25 Most Wanted list.

Because code needs builders.

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From one mom to another

Brittany was three months pregnant when she was offered her dream job with full benefits—health care, paid leave, a supportive team. But she wanted more women to have the same. That’s how The Mom Economy was born—her nonprofit to empower working women with grants so they can take parental leave. Now, seven years, several roles, and three kids later, Brittany continues to support her cause with boundless compassion.

Because trails need blazers.

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The teamwork behind how Teams works

Ever wonder who created the Teams Meeting Recap feature you use every day? It was Eran’s team that initiated and drove the feature—in collaboration with dozens of other employees worldwide. Launched during the pandemic, Recap powered by Copilot made calls more productive and revolutionized the way we all meet. Now, it’s the go-to for millions worldwide. A time-saver no one knew they needed—and now no one can live without.

Because trends need setters.

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The ABCs of cybersecurity

For Rose, security isn’t just about technology—it’s about protection. It’s about making sure kids can learn, explore, and dream without fear. And it’s about building trust in a digital world so their biggest challenge isn’t how to stay safe but discovering something new. Not only does Rose create those systems that safeguard students, but she champions the next generation of women to do the same. Because the path to a safer internet for kids starts with those who dare to lead.

Because safe needs guards.

Azure is more than a color

It was at Microsoft where Nithya was interviewed by a woman in leadership for the first. time. ever. That really hit, after dozens of consulting roles that spanned 17 years and three continents. She reflects, “I never want my daughter and the next generation to assume women can’t be leaders.” Today, she takes action through Philanthropies and Women’s ERG, inspiring girls to map their own futures in tech. Nithya says Azure will no longer be just a color to her—it’s home, and a path forward.

Because paths need finders.

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Her biggest role yet

Angela’s first appearance at Microsoft was in a print ad in the early aughts. Back then, she was just playing the role of a PR pro. Now, she leads groundbreaking PR campaigns at Microsoft—including one for a datacenter in Taiwan generating $10 billion in revenue and over 30,000 jobs. A proud moment!  But her proudest yet? It’s what she does now—telling Microsoft’s trust and innovation stories from the US.

Because stories need tellers.

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Where you work defines how you work

Design can be a big part of inclusion that assures a sense of belonging. And all-gender restrooms are a case point. It was Clark and gender diverse employees who created this legacy at Microsoft HQ. Clark anticipates making more impact on the workplace and D&I in the age of AI. He says, “As a Black and Asian transman at Microsoft, I’m not only surviving but thriving as I get ready to celebrate my 10-year manniversary at Microsoft!” He says where people work influences how they work. And that really matters.

Because waves need makers.

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“Step out of your comfort zone”

The minute Miracle heard those words from Trevor Noah, Microsoft’s chief questions officer, she asked herself, “What can I do right now to step out of my comfort zone?” So, she challenged herself to “feel the fear and do it anyway.” Like raising her hand for stretch assignments, most recently using her experience as a young professional to reach the next generation of Copilot users. Miracle now sees fear as a sign she’s heading in the right direction—sharing her wisdom with others just starting out.

Because go needs getters.

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The making of a mentor

Everyone saw Ginger’s leadership potential from the start, but she insists she wouldn’t be where she is today without the guidance of incredible mentors. Starting as a Microsoft Store Assistant Manager, she worked hard and climbed the ranks to become a Principal Customer Success Account Manager—earning the prestigious Platinum Award along the way. Now, she’s paying it forward, mentoring others with the belief that personal growth and customer success go hand in hand.

Because thoughts need leaders.

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How a platform became a lifeline

When the pandemic struck in 2020, the world faced a new normal. That’s when Jo and her customer success team jumped in—connecting staff in the UK National Health Service through the power of Teams and creating new ways of working that continue to make a critical difference in people’s lives. Jo believes AI will keep improving health care in the days and years to come. No doubt her team will be there to lend a hand.

Because care needs givers.

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    The Intersection
    Celebrating 50 bold, curious, exhilarating, groundbreaking, unpredictable, unforgettable years of Microsoft—and the changemakers that make it happen. 

  • A conversation with Bill Gates

    The Intersection
    As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, Bill discusses the origins and evolution of the company and how the next phase of the digital revolution is the most exciting one yet.

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