When you skill a generation, you don’t just empower people you create ecosystems of opportunity that ripple for decades.
For over 30 years in tech and 24 at Microsoft, Karen Fassio has been a force behind some of Microsoft’s most pivotal programs—quietly shaping the tech industry by connecting people, purpose, and progress.
Her journey began with an invitation from a circle of women to join Microsoft, where she made it her mission to get people skilled. That rallying cry sparked the launch of game-changing initiatives like TechNet Subscriptions, the 2000 Windows Global Certifications program, and SMB licensing offers tools that empowered countless professionals and expanded access to technology on a global scale.
Karen’s impact only grew from there. She became a founding force behind BuildFor2030, amplifying solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and co-founded Women in Cloud, helping unlock over $500M in economic access and creating career pathways for more than 5,000 women in AI and cybersecurity.
Beyond Microsoft, Karen continues to lead with intention. She serves on the board of the Black Channel Partner Alliance, architects’ go-to-market strategies for AI startups, and heads the Microsoft Alumni Network for the Pacific Northwest, ensuring inclusive innovation doesn’t stop at the exit badge.
“Being part of #empowHER50 is more than an honor it’s a legacy. It’s a bridge between generations, ensuring my granddaughter sees the women who shaped the industry and the path she shares with them 50 years from now.” — Karen Fassio
Karen’s legacy is rooted in skilling, storytelling, and strategic generosity. She doesn’t just prepare people for the future she helps them build it, lead it, and thrive in it.
#empowHER50 honors her extraordinary blueprint: one that elevates women, enriches communities, and ensures everyone has a seat and a voice at the table.
About #empowHER50 campaign
This campaign celebrates women leaders at Microsoft, past and present, who have been instrumental in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth. By honoring their contributions over the last half-century, this campaign highlights stories of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. Through digital spotlights, a commemorative coffee table book, live recognition events, and more, the campaign inspires collective action toward achieving equitable societal goals. To learn more about empowHER50, please visit https://womenincloud.com/empowHER50
To learn about Microsoft 50th celebrations: https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-50/
