Information Technology Services (ITS)

IT@UofT People — Belinda McKay

Published on: February 18, 2022

The backbone of any successful team is its hard-working people. The University of Toronto’s Information Technology Services (ITS) unit is no exception. It is made up of a diverse range of people with an even greater diversity in their interests and talents.

In this segment, entitled “IT@UofT People,” we will get to know our IT@UofT team across the tri-campus community and find out more about their hidden or not-so-hidden talents and/or pursuits outside of work.

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Name: Belinda McKay

Department: Business Operations & Administration, ITS

Title: Business Officer

How long have you worked at U of T?
Four months.

What are your secret or not-so-secret talents and hobbies outside of work?

Love of learning: I am motivated to acquire new levels of knowledge and deepen my existing knowledge and skills. Apparently, the term for this is a philomath — a lover of learning and studying.

How and why did you get involved in this hobby?

I have always been inspired to branch out and seek education on a variety of skills and abilities from those around me. I find it exciting that knowledge is transferrable to so many aspects of my life.

My love for learning has led me down many paths. Whether courses through work, online learning or just searching for more general knowledge, that drive is always front and centre!

When/how did your interest in this area begin?

Since I was a child, I’ve had the urge to learn about how things worked. I was passionate to learn computers, so I created my own learning path with training, courses and self-study.

My hard work has paid off and led me to many diverse jobs and projects. Some roles throughout my life include Diversity and Inclusion Selection Committee member, Joint Health and Safety Committee member, Executive Board member, Multicultural for East York Family Services and Indigo’s Love of Reading Ambassador.

Do you have any professional training in this field?

My formal training includes George Brown College from which I received a microcomputer certification and Juno College where I studied data analytics and web development.

This education has provided me with 10+ years of experience in various IT areas including user acceptance testing, implementation, analysis and senior executive administrative support.

Who/what are your inspirations?

I am inspired by creativity. I feel the need to continually better myself and encourage others to become the person they want to be and to be a good role model for the next generation.

As an Indigenous person, I grew up being compared to a stereotype where people underestimated what I was capable of. Even at a young age, I was driven to prove them wrong, continue improving myself and build my knowledge.

I have two beautiful and intelligent daughters and they became my next stage of inspiration. Now, I am inspired by my three adorable and clever granddaughters.

Anything else you would like to add?

Live your life, love yourself as much as you love others and laugh because laughter is the best medicine!!