Shirley holds a B.A.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Waterloo with a specialization in Materials & Manufacturing Processes. During her studies, she has completed six industry co-op terms in various fields of Chemical Engineering including biotechnology, building materials, automotive, and water treatment technology.

Shirley manages the technical activities of the Biomass Quality Network Canada and supports numerous BIC COMM SCI projects. Other side work and projects include conducting a feasibility study of an industrial fermentation commercialization centre at the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park and technical due diligence for SCA investment opportunities.