Episode Overview

In 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 Stoker

Lorraine 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 Episode

• How Lorraine built her very first PC from scratch using a bank loan and books — and why that moment ignited her passion for tech
• What it means to be the only woman in the room — and how to turn that into an advantage
• Her four-part framework for women in tech: Believe, Learn, Network Early, and Lead with Empathy
• Why comparison is the thief of joy — and how to beat your own benchmark instead
• The power of giving back — and how Lorraine's mother inspired a lifelong tradition of generosity
• How to handle workplace conflict and career changes with empathy and resilience

Lorraine's Mantra

"Embrace continuous learning and lead with empathy."

Connect with Lorraine

Lorraine 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 Podcast

WiT Voice Runtime is hosted by Barkha Herman — technologist, developer advocate, podcaster, and mentor empowering women in technology.