Conversation with Lorraine Stoker

Episode OverviewIn this episode of WiTVoices Beyond the Bits, host Barkha Herman sits down with Lorraine Stoker, a Lead Technical Program Manager at Microsoft's Windows + Devices division. Lorraine shares her remarkable journey from a middle-class upbringing in Bengaluru, India, to leading global manufacturing and test programs for some of the world's most recognizable tech products.About Lorraine StokerLorraine Stoker is a Lead Technical Program Manager at Microsoft, where she helps global teams design, develop, and deliver manufacturing and test solutions for Microsoft Surface products. With over a decade at Microsoft, Lorraine is known as an "empathy champion" — a leader who brings people together and turns complexity into clarity.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow Lorraine built her very first PC from scratch using a bank loan and books — and why that moment ignited her passion for techWhat it means to be the only woman in the room — and how to turn that into an advantageHer four-part framework for women in tech: Believe, Learn, Network Early, and Lead with EmpathyWhy comparison is the thief of joy — and how to beat your own benchmark insteadThe power of giving back — and how Lorraine's mother inspired a lifelong tradition of generosityHow to handle workplace conflict and career changes with empathy and resilienceLorraine's Mantra"Embrace continuous learning and lead with empathy."Connect with LorraineLorraine is active on LinkedIn and welcomes connections from anyone seeking career advice, mentorship, or inspiration.🔗 Find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraine-s-23b7907/Connect with the PodcastWiT Voice Runtime is hosted by Barkha Herman — technologist, developer advocate, podcaster, and mentor empowering women in technology.