Robert Youngjohns Excites Morehouse Students about Technology Careers

This week, Robert Youngjohns, President, Microsoft North America, addressed the top 50 science, technology, engineering and mathematic (STEM) students at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., on how they can prepare for rewarding careers in the technology industry.  

“The technology industry is such a thrilling place to work with a relentless rate of change that makes it quite unlike any other industry,” said Youngjohns. “I’ve been in this business for 30 years, and I am still excited to come into work every day.”

Youngjohns’ visit was part of the school’s Leadership Lecture Series, which gives select students the opportunity to interact directly with senior leaders across a variety of businesses. He shared insight into Microsoft’s strong emphasis on cloud computing, as well as the company’s consumerization of IT strategy, raising many questions on what Microsoft is doing to engage consumers. Students especially enjoyed learning about the many uses of Kinect beyond gaming and entertainment.

"I enjoyed hearing how Kinect has uses to help the elderly and others in health care,” said Kenneth Harris, a junior at Morehouse College  “I didn’t even think it was possible that a gaming device could enter the health care market, so it was exciting to see the many things a product like that can do.”

Youngjohns saw a glimpse of Microsoft’s potential leaders while visiting with the students of Morehouse College, as many of them expressed interest in Microsoft technology and careers. His visit also increased awareness of the Microsoft Academy for College Hires program. (MACH), an accelerated career development program that aims to provide worldwide undergraduate and graduate new hires at Microsoft with a smooth transition from academic to professional life.

“These students are among the best and brightest in the nation,” said Youngjohns. “Interacting with them renewed my passion for our MACH program, as I hope to one day transition these bright young minds into Microsoft careers. It was a privilege to share my thoughts on leadership, the ever-evolving IT industry and why Microsoft is a great place to work.”