In this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Steve Buchanan, a technologist currently working at Microsoft and a recent recipient of the TEKNE award for community leadership.

Steve shares his journey into the tech field, starting with a high school job building computers, through his various roles in the industry, and finally his current position at Microsoft. The conversation highlights the importance of persistence, lifelong learning, and the impact of AI on tech careers. It also addresses the significance of increasing diversity in tech and the role of collaboration across sectors to scale tech talent development.

00:00 Introduction to Tech Together Podcast

00:10 Meet Steve Buchanan: A Technologist's Journey

00:56 Early Tech Experiences and Networking

03:39 The Bootcamp Experience: Trials and Tribulations

05:49 Navigating Career Pathways in Tech

11:49 Joining Microsoft: The Inside Story

20:23 Navigating a Career as a Black Technologist

20:58 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated

21:35 The Importance of Sharing Knowledge

22:38 Diversity in Tech: Progress and Challenges

25:15 The Growing Demand for Tech Talent

26:44 Embracing AI and Future Trends

31:56 The Need for Collaboration in Tech

33:38 The Importance of Computer Science Education

38:44 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

---

Learn more about createMPLS.org