Microsoft

From Tech to Tutus: A Former Microsoft Product Manager’s Journey into Ballet

Published

3 months ago

November 7, 2025

Ex-Microsoft product manager opens ballet school, and leans into her tech skills – GeekWire

From Tech to Ballet: The Journey of Adrienne Chan

Adrienne Chan leaps in front of Bellevue Classical Ballet, the dance school she opened after leaving Microsoft. (Photo courtesy of Adrienne Chan)

Adrienne Chan has transitioned from a successful career in tech to pursue her passion for ballet. The former Microsoft product manager is now the co-founder of Bellevue Classical Ballet in Redmond, Wash.

Chan’s journey back to dancing and entrepreneurship began with a realization that she couldn’t ignore her passion for ballet. Despite enjoying her time at Microsoft, the idea of opening a ballet school kept occupying her thoughts.

Bellevue Classical Ballet, opened in September, aims to cater to students of all ages and skill levels. Chan serves as the executive director, while her co-founder, Eric Hipolito Jr., brings his expertise as the artistic director.

Having interned at Microsoft and worked on Azure products, Chan decided to pursue a Master of Science degree in entrepreneurship from the University of Washington. It was during this time that she worked on a dance education app, combining her engineering background with her passion for dance.

Discovering a New Path

Adrienne Chan, right, with a friend on Microsoft’s Redmond, Wash., headquarters campus. (Photo courtesy of Adrienne Chan)

Chan’s journey from a tech career to ballet is a testament to her adaptability and willingness to explore new paths. Growing up in Toronto, she transitioned from gymnastics to ballet at a young age and fell in love with the art form.

Studying systems design engineering at the University of Waterloo, Chan’s interest in entrepreneurship was sparked during an internship at a startup incubator. This experience, combined with her background in engineering, laid the foundation for her future endeavors.

Despite her success at Microsoft, Chan felt a disconnect between her work and her aspirations. The decision to open Bellevue Classical Ballet was driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact and pursue her passion for dance.

Embracing Change and Innovation

Adrienne Chan, center, teaches students of all ages and skill levels at Bellevue Classical Ballet in Redmond, Wash. (Photo courtesy of Adrienne Chan)

Chan’s background in tech has shaped her approach to running Bellevue Classical Ballet. Drawing on her experience managing products, she emphasizes adaptability, iteration, and decisiveness in her new role.

While some may view her career shift as a risk, Chan sees it as a necessary step towards fulfilling her true passion. She believes that her tech background has equipped her with the skills needed to succeed in her new venture.

Adrienne Chan, second from left, and her co-founder Eric Hipolito Jr., right, and two of the teachers at Bellevue Classical Ballet: Yuka Iino, a former principal dancer at the Oregon Ballet Theatre, and Rachel Foster, former principal dancer at the Pacific Northwest Ballet. (Photo courtesy of Adrienne Chan)

As she navigates the challenges of running a ballet school, Chan remains committed to using her expertise and intuition rather than relying on AI solutions. Her unique blend of tech and dance backgrounds has positioned her to make a lasting impact in the world of ballet education.

Chan’s journey serves as a reminder that following your passion and embracing change can lead to fulfilling and meaningful experiences. Through Bellevue Classical Ballet, she continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams and make a difference in their communities.