International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is coming up on June 23. The day promotes and celebrates the achievements of women engineers and gender diversity in STEM fields. Under the 2026 theme, Engineering Intelligence, the campaign aims to showcase the expertise, creativity, and leadership women bring to work every day.
Join us as we celebrate by highlighting UBC IT staff member Shirley Tanoto, whose career journey took her from a degree in engineering to Associate Director, Engagement Services here at UBC IT.
What type of engineering did you study, and what initially attracted you to that field?
Shirley: I studied Engineering Physics with a Mechanical Engineering option at UBC, a demanding five-year program with an emphasis on math, physics, and engineering principles. I didn't know exactly where I wanted to go, but I knew the broad program could keep my options open and set me apart. Being one of only four women in a cohort of 45 was not without its challenges. I struggled at times, but I leaned on those around me to get through it and ultimately proved to myself that I could do it.
Can you tell us about your career path and how it led to your current role at the university?
Shirley: After graduating, I joined Accenture's Management Consulting practice and grew steadily from programmer and technical architect to process architect and Manager, leading large-scale IT transformation projects. After eight years, I made a wholehearted choice to pause my career and stay home for seven years to raise our boys - a decision I cherish deeply and would make again without hesitation. That path eventually led me to UBC IT Engagement Services, where I have spent the last 16 years building valuable partnerships and supporting our client community on their IT needs.
How does your engineering background influence your current work?
Shirley: My engineering training gave me a structured, analytical approach to problem-solving, grounded in methodology, research, and the tenacity to push through challenges - skills I am grateful for as they continue to shape how I support clients in managing change and reducing risks. Engineering also taught me early that great outcomes are built by teams. Working alongside quality leaders and colleagues over the years has deepened my passion for bringing people together, strengthening collaboration, and building meaningful connections across the institution.
What’s a message you would share with other women in STEM?
Shirley: Pursue what you are good at and what brings you genuine joy, and when those two things come together, growth follows naturally. Embrace the journey, step outside your comfort zone, but go at your own pace and allow yourself to make mistakes and reflect. And most importantly, invest in the people around you and let them invest in you — because the quality of your relationships with others and yourself makes the experience truly rewarding.
Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Shirley!
Representation and empowering women to pursue STEM careers is pivotal for inspiring future generations of young women and girls, creating more inclusive work environments, and driving change.
