Microsoft layoffs: My husband has worked for 25 years and rarely takes leave, but was fired by the algorithm
Layouts affect multiple teams around the world
This is Microsoft’s second biggest job in history. The layoffs cover all departments, geography and levels. According to Bloomberg, software engineers account for a large proportion, with more than 2,000 roles in Washington State alone. The company said the restructuring is designed to automate daily tasks and allow employees to focus on high-value work.
Personal stories about layoffs appear
Those affected include a Microsoft employee with 25 years of service. According to a Reddit article by his wife, he was fired after being “randomly selected by computer algorithms” a few days before his 48th birthday. “My husband has been working at Microsoft for 25 years. He has just been fired and randomly selected by computer algorithms. His last day is this Friday, his 48th birthday.”
She added that he is autistic and has multiple sclerosis but rarely takes sick leave, works long hours and provides guidance to colleagues. “Never missed a day of work. Very few people called sick (and would work from home). Working over 60 hours a week. On-call shifts during Christmas and on Thanksgiving, so colleagues with kids might be at home. He never asked for a boost or promotion – he just kept showing up and addressing impossible issues.”
The post continues: “I don’t need a pity. I just need one person to know what the world does to the people who give everything – quiet, consistent, and no need to ask for more.”
The departure of AI directors has also attracted people’s attention
Gabriela de Queiroz, director of artificial intelligence at Microsoft for Startups, also confirmed her exit after the layoffs. She wrote on X: “I was affected by Microsoft’s latest round of layoffs. Am I sad? Absolutely. I’m sad to see so many talented people and I’m honored to be let go. These people care deeply, go beyond, go beyond and really make a difference and really make a difference. She added: “I chose to stay longer – to stay in company for meetings, say goodbye, and end my ability.” This is correct for me. “She wrote: “But if you know me, you know I always look at the bright side.” My inner optimist. This has not changed. My smile, my gratitude, I believe every day is a gift – it’s all here. ”
Criticism of algorithmic layoffs and company methods
The layoffs have sparked criticism from social media, with some users questioning Microsoft’s reliance on automatic layoff tools. “That’s why no one should be loyal to their employers,” said one user. “It would be fun to know how many people the algorithm chooses in their forties and/or have expensive health problems.”
The third added: “I wouldn’t expect anything different from a company like Microsoft.”
Company says layoffs aim to improve AI readiness
Microsoft explained that layoffs support its transition to greater AI integration in its products and services. In April, CEO Satya Nadella revealed that AI now writes up to 30% of the code in some projects. A vice president also urged the team to increase the AI-generated code from 20-30% to 50%, and soon, more than a dozen engineers were released.
De Queiroz’s influence on others said: “For those who are affected too – you are not alone. We are at least 6,000.”
