In the modern tech world, certain names rise not just for their achievements, but for their courage to speak truth to power. One of those names is Susan Fowler, the former Uber engineer whose bravery exposed a toxic workplace culture and sparked a global conversation on gender discrimination, harassment, and accountability in the tech industry.

Who Is Susan Fowler?

Susan J. Fowler is an American writer, engineer, and editor known for her influential role as a whistleblower in one of the most publicized sexual harassment cases in Silicon Valley history. Born in 1991 in rural Arizona, Fowler came from humble beginnings and pursued her passion for science and technology, eventually earning a degree in physics from the University of Pennsylvania.

She joined Uber as a Site Reliability Engineer in 2015, where her personal experiences would become the catalyst for monumental industry change.

What Did Susan Fowler Do?

In February 2017, Susan Fowler published a bombshell blog post titled "Reflecting on One Very, Very Strange Year at Uber." In it, she detailed numerous incidents of sexual harassment, discrimination, and HR negligence during her time at the company.

Her post didn’t just recount a single incident—it revealed a systemic culture of toxicity, where complaints were ignored, victims were punished, and leadership failed to act.

The blog post went viral overnight, making headlines across the globe. It prompted:

• An independent investigation led by former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder

• The resignation of Uber CEO Travis Kalanick

• A wave of women in tech coming forward with their own stories

• New policies and reforms aimed at workplace equity and safety

Why Did She Do It?

Susan Fowler wasn’t trying to become a public figure or a movement leader—she simply wanted to tell the truth.

Despite being warned that going public would destroy her career, Fowler believed that silence would only perpetuate the cycle of abuse. She acted out of a deep sense of moral responsibility, determined to shine a light on the injustices she and others faced in silence.

Fowler’s decision came at a personal cost. She endured public scrutiny, online harassment, and career risk. But for her, the potential to drive meaningful change outweighed the fear.

Why It Matters

Fowler's blog post didn’t just impact Uber—it became a pivotal moment in the broader movement for workplace accountability. It helped:

• Launch the #MeToo movement in tech

• Inspire organizational transparency across industries

• Highlight the need for HR reform and diversity and inclusion initiatives

• Show that one voice can make a global impact

In 2020, Fowler published her memoir, Whistleblower, offering a deeper look into her story and the cost of standing up to injustice.

Why Should You Care?

Whether you work in tech or not, Susan Fowler’s story matters to everyone. It’s about more than Silicon Valley—it's about the fight for fairness, equality, and safe workplaces everywhere.

You should care because:

• Harassment and discrimination are still rampant in many industries.

• Real change starts when people speak up—and when others listen.

• Her story is a reminder that integrity, courage, and truth-telling still matter.

By learning about Fowler’s journey, we honor those who dare to demand better, even when it's inconvenient or risky. And we commit to building a future where such bravery isn't the exception—but the expectation.

What To Do If It Happens To You

If you’re experiencing harassment, discrimination, or retaliation in the workplace, you are not alone—and you do have options:

1. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of incidents including dates, times, what was said or done, who was involved, and any witnesses. Save emails, messages, or screenshots when possible.

2. Report Internally

If it feels safe to do so, report the incident to your HR department or a trusted manager. Many companies are legally required to investigate.

3. Know Your Rights

Familiarize yourself with your legal protections. In the U.S., the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws against workplace discrimination and harassment. Their site offers guidance and a way to file formal complaints.

4. Seek Support

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Reach out to:

• Employment attorneys for legal advice

• Support groups or nonprofits that specialize in workplace justice (e.g. Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund, National Women’s Law Center)

• Therapists or counselors who can help you process what you’re going through

5. Speak Up—If and When You’re Ready

Whether it’s internally, legally, anonymously, or publicly—your voice matters. You have the right to a safe, respectful workplace.

Final Thoughts

Susan Fowler’s courage reshaped an industry. Let her story be a reminder: Change begins with one voice, but it grows with many. If something isn’t right, speak up, support those who do, and demand better. Because silence protects the abuser—not the abused.