UC Tech News is excited to launch the UC Tech Leaders Q&A Series in 2026—a series designed to spotlight the voices shaping technology across UC.
What is Your Name?
Shirley Bittlingmeier
What is Your Title? UC Location?
Executive Director, IT Client Services
UC Office of the President
What are Your Top IT/Security Priorities in 2026?
Upskilling staff in AI along with all the security guardrails needed, securing the use of BYO devices in our hybrid work environment, and ensuring our strategy aligns with UC President Milliken’s priorities.
What Emerging Tech Excites You for Higher Ed?
AI! It’s the next emerging technology. AI is the next major wave of technological innovation, and we are at a unique moment where individuals and organizations alike are starting at roughly the same point in its evolution. This creates a rare, level playing field: no one has decades of institutional advantage, and the rules, best practices, and standards are still being defined. AI will reshape how we work, solve problems, and deliver services. For IT in particular, AI will not only enhance operations and service delivery but also redefine the skills and roles required of technology professionals. This presents a powerful opportunity. We are not just adopting a new tool; we are helping shape how AI is implemented, governed, and integrated into daily work. By intentionally investing in AI literacy, ethical frameworks, and practical applications, we can help define what the next generation of IT professionals looks like: strategic, data-informed, automation-savvy, and focused on human-centered service.
What Emerging Tech Worries You?
AI!! As with all new technologies, it can be used for good and for evil. We need to provide guidance on responsible AI use, data governance, risk management and alignment with university policies and regulatory requirements.
How Do You Balance Innovation with Security?
I like to take a risk-based approach that balances innovation with security and compliance. Not every initiative carries the same level of risk so I try to tailor the level of scrutiny and governance accordingly.
What Principles/Values Shape Your Leadership?
Respect, leading by example, accountability and inclusion. These values shape my leadership and are grounded in the principles in how we work together to deliver reliable services, drive innovation, and support one another. For me, leadership starts with community. Meaningful progress happens through action and engagement. That means participating in engagement and cultural events, being present in conversations that matter, and contributing to the shared culture that defines our teams. Recognition is also essential. Technical work can often happen behind the scenes, but its impact is significant. Consistently acknowledging and celebrating accomplishments reinforces a culture where people feel seen and valued. Our collective expertise is one of our greatest strengths. No single person or team holds all the answers. I like to bring together those diverse perspectives that result in a more resilient and successful solution. Inclusive collaboration isn’t just a value; it’s a technical advantage. Providing context is another priority. Understanding the “why” behind decisions, whether related to governance, security, platform strategy, or service design enables better technical judgment and stronger execution. Through these practices, I continue to foster an environment where every team member can contribute fully, where innovation is shared, execution is strong, and trust is built through transparency and respect.
What Books are You Currently Reading?
DEI Deconstructed by Lily Zheng, which is more of a textbook with reflection questions at the end of each chapter. And Penny Dreadfuls, compiled by Stefan Dziemianowicz
What’s Your Favorite Thing to Do Outside of Work?
Gardening, which is mostly weeding right now, and walking my dogs while listening to podcasts.
Anything Else to Add?
IT leaders should view this perspective as a strategic priority because culture directly shapes performance, inclusivity, and community-centered teams that are more resilient, better at problem-solving and more responsive to our clients. Leadership is not just about setting direction: it’s about creating conditions where everyone can contribute fully. How can leaders get started? Begin with intentional listening. Show up consistently in community spaces. Ensure all voices are included and heard and use your influence to remove obstacles and champion inclusive practices.
Thank you for the conversation, Shirley!
Shirley Bittlingmeier
Executive Director, IT Client Services
UC Office of the President
Tech Leader Spotlights
UC Tech News is excited to launch the UC Tech Leaders Q&A Series in 2026—designed to spotlight the voices shaping technology across UC. The UC tech community values hearing directly from its leaders, and this series aims to be both inspiring and informative.
Are you a tech leader at UC? We’d love to hear from you! To participate, please complete the short Q&A form and please include a photo.
