Sharon Tinker graduated from the University of Iowa with a BS in chemical engineering in 1980. She began her career as a process engineer at Exxon Chemical in Houston, Texas. Over the years, Sharon held various technical, maintenance, and operations roles at Exxon Chemical and ExxonMobil chemical plants and refineries in Baytown, Texas; Singapore; Torrance, California; and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She concluded her distinguished career as a process safety engineer in a global support role with ExxonMobil Engineering Company.

Sharon has made significant contributions to her alma mater. She inspired and supported the Chemical Engineering Process Safety Laboratory, where students develop critical skills and are encouraged to participate in the Tinker Process Safety Award competition. This initiative has positioned the university as a leader in chemical engineering process safety. To further support and recognize the department's high-performing and innovative research, she established the Sharon K. Tinker Process Safety Professor of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering.

Sharon remains actively involved with the University of Iowa, serving on the College of Engineering Advisory Board and the Libraries Advancement Council. Sharon also contributes as an adjunct lecturer for the Petroleum Refining class each year.  In retirement, Sharon enjoys giving back to the community through her volunteer work. She serves on the board of directors for the Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge and volunteers with the Iowa State Historical Museum and the United Way of Central Iowa’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.