Technology is constantly evolving, shaping the way we connect and interact with the world. At the heart of this transformation is Ankita Sharma, a Software Engineer at Microsoft, whose work helps build the invisible yet essential infrastructure behind our digital experiences. With a strong foundation in computer science and a love for storytelling, Ankita blends problem-solving with a human touch as she navigates the world of cloud computing—an intricate network of servers and data centers that power countless applications and services.
A Journey Driven by Passion and Growth
Ankita’s entry into the tech world was sparked by her father’s encouragement—a nudge she now deeply appreciates. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, she launched her career at JPMorgan Chase, where she spent three years refining her skills and setting the stage for the pursuit of her American dream. Seeking new challenges and opportunities, she pursued a Master’s in Information Management from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Through persistence, continuous learning, and self-belief, she secured her current role at Microsoft.
“My current role at Microsoft came through a mix of persistence, continuous learning, and believing in myself,” Ankita shared. Beyond her technical prowess, Ankita believes in the power of storytelling to bridge the gap between complex technology and human understanding.
Building the Infrastructure of the Future at Microsoft
Microsoft, a leader in global technology, creates the software, hardware, and cloud services that millions depend on every day. Ankita plays a role in the Azure Storage team, where they focus on the core infrastructure that makes the cloud run smoothly. Essentially, she’s helping build the foundation that keeps data safe, scalable, and accessible in the digital world.
Within Azure Storage, Ankita’s focus is on capacity management. This crucial area ensures that Microsoft’s data centers have the precise amount of storage needed to meet the ever-growing demands of the cloud, allowing for efficient and seamless scaling. Her work involves a significant amount of coding, ranging from the development of internal tools and automation scripts to the intricate analysis of large-scale data and the continuous improvement of production systems.
“Coding is core to what I do — from building internal tools and automations to analyzing large-scale data and improving production systems,” Ankita explained.
Beyond her core engineering responsibilities, Ankita also dedicates her time as the Finance Lead for Azure Families, an Employee Resource Group within Microsoft. This initiative fosters a supportive community for employees, particularly parents and caregivers, demonstrating her commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment that extends beyond code.
Advice for Aspiring Computer Scientists
For students considering a path in computer science and cloud technologies, Ankita offers valuable advice rooted in her own experiences:
“Don’t wait to feel ‘ready’ — you might end up waiting forever. The best learning comes from doing.”
She emphasizes the importance of practical application, recommending platforms like LeetCode for aspiring Software Engineers to hone their skills and preparation for interviews.
Ankita emphasizes the importance of grasping core concepts in computer science as a strong foundation for any career in the field. She also points out something many might not expect—the crucial role of communication: “Being able to explain your thought process clearly is a game-changer.”
The Foundational Importance of Computer Science Education
Ankita believes in the power of computer science education for all students, regardless of their intended career path.
“Computer science teaches you how to think—how to break problems down and solve them creatively. Whether or not you pursue tech, those skills are powerful.”
She sees it as a fundamental skill for navigating the modern world, emphasizing that its principles extend beyond computers to encompass how information is organized and processed in various aspects of life. In her view, “It’s the future of almost everything.”
Tools and Languages of the Trade
Ankita’s daily work involves a diverse set of tools and programming languages:
Languages: C#, Python, SQL, some Bash and PowerShell.
Tools: Azure, Azure Data Explorer, Git, Visual Studio, VS Code, Copilot, and Semantic Kernel
Other essential skills: Dashboarding tools & basic system design principles
Looking Ahead: Building a Better Future Through Technology
Ankita’s journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, continuous learning, and the impact of technology in shaping the future. Whether through engineering, community-building, or mentoring, she exemplifies that tech is not just about coding—it’s about creating meaningful change. Her story highlights how a blend of technical skills, ongoing growth, and a passion for making a difference can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career in computer science. Ankita’s work serves as a reminder of the critical role software engineers play in shaping our digital future.
Ankita is a Microsoft Software Engineer, a builder at heart, and a firm believer that tech should empower people — not just processes.
