For Michelle Pruitt, technology should be an equalizer, not a gatekeeper. As an AI Strategist, TEDx Speaker, and Oscar-qualified ICONS executive producer, she has witnessed both the transformative power of AI and the risks of exclusion. Throughout her career—including her tenure at Microsoft—she has championed the responsible deployment of AI, ensuring it unlocks opportunity rather than deepens disparities.
Her defining moment came when she saw businesses and individuals struggling to leverage AI due to a lack of access, tools, or knowledge. This realization drove her mission to make AI accessible, equitable, safe, secure, and empowering. Through Women in Cloud, Pruitt has mentored entrepreneurs, championed AI-driven solutions, and ensured that women have a seat at the table in digital transformation. She has helped women in cloud to achieve $500M in economic access impact through strategic coaching and guidance while participating in policy discussions. But Pruitt doesn’t just talk about change—she activates it. As a super enabler, she has redefined what it means to show up for communities. She has leveraged her expertise by donating, mentoring, sponsoring, and serving on advisory boards to drive real change. Her approach is not about waiting for opportunities to open but about creating new doors and pathways for those traditionally left out of the AI and technology revolution. Her work is not just about optimization—it’s about amplification. AI, when applied responsibly, doesn’t replace human potential; it multiplies it. And Pruitt is committed to making sure no one is left behind.
Three Unique Strategies That Define Michelle Pruitt
- Galvanize: Pruitt has the rare ability to mobilize people, businesses, and communities toward a shared vision. Whether it’s rallying AI leaders to champion ethical AI development or inspiring women entrepreneurs to break barriers, she accelerates ideas into movements. Her work with Women in Cloud has activated a global network of changemakers committed to AI-driven economic access.
- Futurist: A true visionary, Pruitt thrives at the intersection of technology and possibility. She doesn’t just follow industry trends—she anticipates them, creating innovative strategies that push the boundaries of AI accessibility. From reducing inefficiencies in enterprise AI adoption to designing pathways for women in AI leadership, her predictions pave the way for the future.
- Discernment: In a world flooded with data and rapid technological change, Pruitt stands out for her ability to see through the noise and identify what truly matters. She makes complex AI concepts actionable, helping businesses, policymakers, and individuals understand how to implement AI ethically and effectively. Her strategic insight ensures that AI isn’t just used for efficiency—but for impact.
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/
