Turkish economist, finance specialist and technology executive. She is known as one of Türkiye’s first female computer programmers. Since the founding of Baykar Technology, she has played key roles in financial strategy and management. She currently serves as a member of the Baykar Board of Directors.

Life and Education

Canan Bayraktar, born in 1950 in the Kadıköy district of Istanbul, completed her middle and high school education at Çamlıca Girls’ High School. She graduated from the Faculty of Economics at Istanbul University in 1971. She began her career at the Turkish Industrial Development Bank where she programmed in Assembly language, becoming one of Türkiye’s first female computer programmers.

Family Life

In 1977, she married engineer and entrepreneur Özdemir Bayraktar. They have three children named Haluk, Selçuk and Ahmet. Her children have made significant contributions to the development of Baykar Technology and to the global success of unmanned aerial vehicle technology, which has drawn attention in Türkiye’s defense industry.

Career

Canan Bayraktar began her professional life at the Turkish Industrial Development Bank and has been actively involved in managing financial processes since the founding of Baykar Technology. Serving as a board member and deputy general manager within the company, Bayraktar has contributed to its growth through her expertise in finance and strategy.

Foundation Activities

Canan Bayraktar also engages in social responsibility initiatives. She is a member of the boards of the Canan Bayraktar Public Health Foundation (Cansağlığı Vakfı) and Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation), supporting the activities carried out in these fields.

Impact and Legacy

In addition to her distinguished career in technology and finance, Canan Bayraktar is a role model for increasing the presence of women in the technology sector. She draws attention through her entrepreneurial spirit, support for social responsibility projects and strong leadership qualities.