Information Technology Services (ITS)
IT@UofT People – Cathy Eberts
Published on: October 15, 2019
The backbone of any successful team is its hard-working people. The University of Toronto’s Information Technology Services (ITS) division is privileged to employ outstanding individuals with diverse talents that extend beyond work-related education and skills.
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.
With hockey season in full swing, this segment will feature a series of resident U of T hockey players throughout fall and winter 2019/20.
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Cathy Eberts, Director and Deputy CIO, Enterprise Applications and Solutions Integration (EASI).
Name: Cathy Eberts
Department: Enterprise Applications and Solutions Integration (EASI) and Office of the Chief Information Officer
Title: Director and Deputy CIO
How long have you worked at U of T?
I’ve worked here 24 years, going on 25.
What do you like about working at U of T and ITS in particular?
I love to problem solve and to work with creative people in meeting these challenges. There doesn’t seem to be any shortage of interesting projects to engage in at U of T and the talent we have within ITS is amazing.
What is your not-so-secret talent outside of working here?
Playing hockey as a hobby.
How many years have you been playing hockey?
Because there were no girls teams in those early years, I spent hours playing pick-up hockey with the boys from about the time I was nine years old. Later, when it was time to go away to university, I decided to go to Queen’s as they had a women’s hockey team. I was able to make the varsity team but then had to learn how to skate in boys’ skates – a huge adjustment. I spent the first year still looking for those white figure skate picks!
Can you tell me a bit about your league?
I’ve played in many leagues over the years in Toronto, but currently I’m playing in a coed league at Canlan Ice Sports in Scarborough on Saturday nights. We have a great group of players of all ages – parents, sisters, brothers, friends, etc. There are some very good players in the league but all levels can participate and we have a lot of fun.
Do you have any hockey superstitions or advice you’d like to share?
No superstitions, but my advice, as you grow older: buy a lighter stick!
Do you partake in this sport as a way to keep healthy and active? In other words, is your motive fitness-related?
I was never one to exercise just for the sake of keeping healthy. I need to use my mind as well and that’s why hockey is such a great fit for me. I am fascinated by the speed of the game, the teamwork and the strategy.
Who is your favourite hockey player and why?
My kids, now age 21 and 26. I’ve been to every rink in southern Ontario to watch them play over the years. It has been a real family affair and many friendships have been made.
Who is your favourite hockey team and why?
I have to pick two – the Canadian and US Women’s national teams. It’s great to see the growth of women’s hockey and both teams are incredibly skilled.
And most importantly… Is U of T at risk of losing you to the NHL full-time?!
Not likely – I think there’s more of a chance of losing me to injury. At this point, I’ve broken my thumb, my ankle and had my knee rebuilt from playing hockey. I guess it must all be worth it!