In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients and set aside. In another bowl, combine the shortening , butter, vanilla and brown sugar and mix until light and fluffy. Add in eggs, one at a time beating well after each addition. Stir in all dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Stir in the chopped pecans. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto a lightly greased cookie sheet. Gently press 1 pecan half into each mound of dough. Bake at 350 degrees for 9 -12 minutes. Cookies should be a light golden brown. Remove immediately onto a wire rack to cool.