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Microsoft hires Code.org’s Pat Yongpradit to lead global education policy

From classroom teacher to Microsoft’s education leader: How Pat Yongpradit’s decade-long mission to transform coding education just got a corporate stage. Will AI finally become a school staple?

The image shows a set of four different colored icons on a white background, including a person, a...
The image shows a set of four different colored icons on a white background, including a person, a book, a play button, a graduation cap, and a document, all of which are associated with the best online learning platforms.

Microsoft hires Code.org’s Pat Yongpradit to lead global education policy

Pat Yongpradit, a long-time advocate for computer science education, has joined Microsoft as General Manager of Global Education and Workforce Policy. The move follows his twelve-year tenure at Code.org, where he pushed for AI and coding to become core parts of school curricula.

Yongpradit’s connection with Microsoft dates back to 2009, when company staff first supported his classroom by introducing students to basic programming. Over the years, he built a career in education policy, eventually becoming Chief Academic Officer at Code.org. There, he worked to integrate computer science and AI into national graduation requirements and education frameworks.

His new role at Microsoft places him under Justin Spelhaug, President of Microsoft Elevate, with oversight from Brad Smith, the company’s Vice-Chair and President. The appointment reflects Microsoft’s growing focus on education and workforce development, particularly as AI and digital skills gain importance in global economic strategies. In a LinkedIn post, Yongpradit confirmed his departure from Code.org and his transition to Microsoft. He also acknowledged the influence of Allyson Knox, a professional contact he has known for over a decade.

The hire strengthens Microsoft’s education policy team at a time when digital literacy is increasingly tied to economic opportunity. Yongpradit’s background in advocacy and curriculum development will now shape the company’s approach to global workforce training. His position reports directly to senior leadership, underlining the strategic priority of education initiatives.

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