In a move that has sent shockwaves through the tech industry, Microsoft recently announced its second-largest job reduction ever, laying off approximately 6,000 employees—nearly 3% of its global workforce. This decision has affected various levels and teams across the company, including Gabriela de Queiroz, the esteemed Director of AI for Microsoft for Startups.

A Bittersweet Departure

Gabriela de Queiroz took to social media to share her “bittersweet news” of being laid off. Her heartfelt message highlighted the talents and dedication of her former colleagues who were also let go. “I am heartbroken to see so many talented people I’ve had the honor of working with being let go,” she said on X, formerly known as Twitter. The irony wasn’t lost—how could an AI director be let go amidst the company’s ambitious drive into artificial intelligence?

The Impact of AI Advancements

While Microsoft is doubling down on artificial intelligence, it’s intriguing to note how layoffs affect those farthest into the integration of AI. Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s CEO, has noted that AI now contributes to 30% of their code generation—a figure expected to rise. According to Bloomberg analysis, in Washington state alone, 40% of the positions eliminated belonged to software engineers, showcasing a significant reshuffle within the company’s tech-savvy workforce.

Standing Together

Despite the layoffs, Gabriela’s message was one of unity and resilience. “To those also affected—you’re not alone, we’re at least 6,000,” she encouraged. Rather than leaving immediately, she continued to wrap up her commitments, maintaining her optimistic nature.

Protests and Unrest

Coinciding with the layoffs, Microsoft’s annual Build 2025 developer conference in Seattle was disrupted by an employee protest. Joe Lopez, a Microsoft Azure veteran, along with a former Google employee, voiced their dissent against the company’s AI and cloud contracts with the Israeli government, shouting “Free Palestine”. This marks a continuation of protest culture brewing within tech giants, questioning the ethical implications of their technological endeavors.

Looking Forward

Despite the uncertainty of her future, Gabriela’s optimism remains unshaken. “What’s next? I don’t know yet. But I trust that something good will come out of this,” she remarked, embodying the hope shared by many affected.

As stated in Times of India, Microsoft aims to streamline operations and reduce management layers through these layoffs, painting a broader picture of a tech industry grappling with change and ethical considerations. For those left behind, it’s a time of reflection and a collective hope for a brighter future.