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Shamora Chiles
Microsoft, Program Manager II
Professional Background
Shamora 'Marleigh' Chiles is a distinguished and versatile Program Manager with a wealth of experience accumulated over her impressive 15-year career in product and program management, operations, communications, and release management. Currently serving as a Program Manager II at Microsoft, Marleigh has demonstrated her ability to lead teams and projects that are both complex and impactful. Her journey reflects a unique blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and a passion for collaborative work, making her a valuable asset in any tech-driven environment.
Before her current role at Microsoft, Marleigh honed her skills in various positions within the organization, including Release Program Manager for Developer Relations and Software Development Apprentice. These experiences not only allowed her to gain deeper insights into the tech industry but also equipped her with the necessary skills to manage diverse projects that bridge the gap between technology and user experience.
Marleigh is also recognized for her contributions beyond her professional work. She has a passion for empowering others, evidenced by her co-founding of Girls Rock Columbia and serving as a Lead Project Manager. This initiative aims to inspire young girls to explore technology and music, reflecting her commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the tech field. As a former panelist at Women In Tech Regatta, Marleigh has shared her expertise and insights, contributing to the discussion on women's roles in technology and encouraging more women to enter the field.
Education and Achievements
Marleigh's educational journey is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She studied at the prestigious University of South Carolina-Columbia, where she earned both a Master of Library & Information Science degree and a Museum Management Certificate. With a stellar 4.0 GPA, her academic performance underscores her dedication to her field. Her education provided a solid foundation in information science, archives, and museum management, which she expertly combined with her technical abilities gained from studying full-stack software development at Ada Developers Academy.
This combination of education in technology and information science uniquely positions Marleigh among her peers, enabling her to approach projects with a holistic view that incorporates both technical skills and knowledge of library sciences. Her diverse educational background is complemented by her hands-on experience in various roles, making her well-rounded and adaptable in evolving environments.
Additional Roles in the Community
In addition to her professional and educational endeavors, Marleigh has contributed to her community in many capacities. At the University of South Carolina, she excelled as the Lead Project Manager at the McKissick Museum, overseeing pivotal projects that helped enhance the museum's visibility and community engagement while educating the public about important historical narratives. She also served as the Data Curation Lead for the Moving Images Research Collections, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of valuable visual heritage.
Throughout her career, Marleigh has held various positions within the academic landscape, including the Graduate Student Assistant at the South Caroliniana Library, and the Project Lead for the SLIS 3D Imaging Lab, where she demonstrated her willingness to embrace innovative approaches to information sharing and education. Each role allowed her to further develop her organizational and leadership skills, essential for effective program management.
Marleigh’s early career experience with the Carnival Cruise Line as an Outport Sales Programs Specialist and as a Senior Barista at Cool Beans! Coffee Company showcased her diverse skill set in client relations and operations management. Each experience contributed to her strong communication skills and ability to serve clients effectively, qualities that continue to serve her well in her current role at Microsoft.
Overall, Shamora 'Marleigh' Chiles stands as a remarkable figure in the arena of program management and technology. Her unique combination of skills, coupled with her dedication to advancing women's representation in tech, continues to inspire those around her. Through both her professional achievements and community contributions, Marleigh exemplifies leadership, creativity, and a commitment to fostering inclusive environments in the tech industry.
