Paving the Way: A Woman’s Journey in Tech Leadership
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the trailblazers who have shaped industries, broken barriers, and paved the way for future generations. In the world of technology, where women are still underrepresented in leadership roles, sharing our stories is more important than ever.
This month, we’re featuring Moira Quiroga, Head of N.A. Personal and Business Banking Testing & Enablement at BMO, as she shares her unconventional journey into technology. From aspiring civil engineer to GIS specialist, and ultimately to leading global teams in software testing and innovation, Moira’s career has been shaped by curiosity, resilience, and the support of incredible mentors. Now, she is committed to fostering an environment where diversity thrives, and where women in tech can grow, lead, and inspire the next generation. Here’s her story.
My journey into technology was unconventional. Initially, I aimed to become a civil engineer and attended the University of Illinois – Chicago while working at the US Army Corps of Engineers. Exposure to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) at the Army Corps shifted my interest, leading me to switch my major to GIS halfway through college. After graduating, I joined McDonald’s Corp as a GIS Developer, first as a contractor and then as an employee. My entry into software testing was serendipitous; I discovered my passion for it while covering for the Testing lead during a critical project.
Over my 25+ year career, I’ve worked in various industries, both as a full-time employee and a contractor. This diverse experience has allowed me to learn best practices, take on higher roles, and continuously advance my knowledge through certifications, reading, podcasts, and online courses. Currently, as the Head of N.A. Personal and Business Banking Testing, Enablement, and Innovation at BMO, I lead a high-performing, diverse global team, which I built from the ground up.
Throughout my career, I’ve been supported by amazing leaders who provided training, stretch opportunities, and coaching. Early on, training like “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” significantly shaped my professional development. As a leader at BMO, I strive to offer the same support to my team, emphasizing the importance of diversity and providing opportunities for career growth, bringing my team along on the journey whereby many of former team members have moved up the career ladder internally or at outside companies.
Moira Quiroga | Head, N.A. P&BB Testing & Enablement at BMO