When you build with purpose, what you leave behind isn’t just technology—it’s legacy.
For over 26 years, Suma Uppuluri has quietly shaped the backbone of Microsoft’s digital evolution. From optimizing the Windows kernel in the early 2000s to leading business-critical engineering for HR, CELA, and Finance systems, her work has touched nearly every corner of the company’s global infrastructure. But ask Suma what she’s most proud of, and she won’t talk about systems or code—she’ll talk about people.
“True impact isn’t just measured by what we build,” she says, “but by the people we empower along the way.”
Suma’s Microsoft journey began as a young engineer fresh from Kansas State University, driven by her love for STEM and a dream to join one of the world’s most influential tech companies. Her contributions to Windows, engineering efficiency, and Microsoft’s enterprise solutions have been foundational—but it’s her leadership, mentorship, and human-first approach that have had the most enduring ripple effect.
As a Principal Group Engineering Manager, she not only leads high-performing teams but creates cultures where engineers of all backgrounds feel seen, supported, and set up to thrive. She mentors early-career talent, champions inclusive hiring, and instills a growth mindset in those around her.
Outside the office, Suma channels her energy into community service, supporting Sophia Way and volunteering in local schools—all while hiking through the forests of the Pacific Northwest, recharging in nature’s quiet brilliance.
Suma’s legacy isn’t just in the systems she’s helped build—it’s in the people she’s empowered to keep building.
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/
