After 26 years at Microsoft, this techie is exploring life beyond corporate work through construction, plumbing & more
Former Microsoft director Shawn Mrzena accepted a voluntary exit offer in July 2026 after a 25-year career at the technology giant. Since leaving, he has explored construction, plumbing, product design and fly-fishing while taking time for family adventures before deciding on his next career move.
Shawn Mrzena, a former Microsoft employee from Redmond, Washington, has retired after 26 years at the technology giant. In July 2026, Mrzena took a voluntary retirement offer and began exploring new career paths outside of his previous corporate responsibilities. He has since delved into construction work, plumbing, outdoor gear design, fabrication, and guiding fly-fishing trips.
Mrzena documented his first 90 days outside of corporate life on LinkedIn, sharing photographs and reflecting on the hands-on work that had allowed him to reconnect with his roots. He held various positions at Microsoft, including Global Sales Leader, Director of Global Security and Compliance Sales Programs, and a Business Strategy and Sales Program Leader/Director for AI Business Solutions.
His retirement offer was part of Microsoft's Voluntary Exit Offer (VEO) program, which provided eligible employees with financial support and career planning resources. Mrzena's departure from Microsoft follows the company's earlier voluntary retirement programme, which aimed to support employees considering opportunities outside the firm.
As he explores different possibilities before deciding on his next move, Mrzena plans to spend time with his family, work on building projects, enjoy outdoor activities, and even take naps with his two French bulldogs. He has not committed to any of these activities as a permanent career and intends to decide on his next step in 2027.
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