Some people build careers. Others build communities. Sheila Apte has spent a lifetime doing both; often quietly, and always with purpose.

This spring, the American Association of University Women (AAUW), Orinda-Moraga-Lafayette branch, honored Apte as its Distinguished Woman of the Year. The recognition reflects not only her professional achievements, but also her steady, behind-the-scenes dedication to education, service, and opportunity for women and girls.

Apte’s journey began far from the East Bay. At just 20 years old, she left Mumbai, India to pursue an engineering education in the United States. She was one of very few women in a field dominated by men. In classrooms filled with hundreds of male students, she carved out her place with determination and focus; laying the groundwork for a career that would span great distances.

She went on to become a civil engineer specializing in bridge design, still a rare distinction for women in the field. Her work contributed to major infrastructure projects including the New Carquinez Bridge in California and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Washington State. Both are known for their scale, complexity, and importance to regional transportation.

If engineering is how Apte built physical bridges, her volunteer work is how she has built human ones.

Since joining AAUW-OML in 2014, Apte has been a quiet force within the organization. She first became involved as a tutor, working with third-grade math students at Burckhalter Elementary and assisting younger children in computer labs; work she continued even during COVID through virtual learning. There, she helped students develop essential skills in math, language, and technology.

Her impact quickly expanded. She took on key roles in the organization’s STEM initiatives; building and managing a comprehensive volunteer database that has supported programs for years. She also maintained the membership database, a critical but often unseen responsibility that keeps the organization running smoothly.

Colleagues describe her as a rock of reliability; someone who consistently shows up, follows through, and strengthens every effort she touches. In many ways, she embodies the spirit of a “hidden figure,” making a lasting difference without seeking recognition.

Apte’s passion for encouraging young women in STEM is deeply personal. Early in her career, she was often the only woman engineer in the room. That experience shaped her commitment to opening doors for the next generation; especially middle school girls, at a pivotal age when interests take shape and confidence can grow.

Today, she plays a leading role in AAUW’s STEM efforts, helping coordinate volunteers for the annual conference at Saint Mary’s College and supporting programs like Tech Trek, which introduces girls to hands-on science experiences and connects them with women in STEM careers.

At the conferences, she leads one of the most popular workshops: designing and building model bridges using cardboard, rope, and string. When a carefully constructed bridge finally collapses under the weight of stacked books, the reaction is immediate; laughter, curiosity, and a flood of questions about how real bridges are designed. For Apte, those moments are the reward.

Beyond AAUW, Apte remains deeply engaged in her local community, where she has lived since 1977. She is an active member of Moraga’s Community Emergency Response Team, participating in monthly drills to stay prepared for emergencies. She also served six years on the board of the Moraga Citizens Network, including as treasurer; she even took on the challenge of producing community newsletters.

Despite these accomplishments, Apte’s approach to life remains grounded. Family has always been central; guiding decisions throughout her career and shaping the balance she has maintained between professional achievement and personal commitment.

Her story is also one of creativity and curiosity. Outside of engineering and service, she enjoys travel, creative writing, and painting in oils; pursuits that reflect the same thoughtful, patient approach she brings to everything she does.

Apte was also featured in Diablo Magazine’s 2022 “Threads of Hope” issue, highlighting her as someone whose contributions extend far beyond a single field or role.

Now, as AAUW-OML’s Distinguished Woman of the Year, she will serve as keynote speaker at the organization’s May Luncheon. She will share her journey from Mumbai to Moraga in her own words; a story marked by resilience, humility, and impact.

For those who know her, the honor feels well earned. For those just discovering her work, it is a reminder that some of the strongest bridges are not just made of steel and concrete. They are built through service, mentorship, and a lifelong commitment to lifting others.

Sheila Apte has been building them all along.