Engineering a Legacy: Overcoming Expectations, Gender Roles, and Cancer

SEASON 2 — EPISODE 3Engineering a Legacy: Overcoming Expectations, Gender Roles, and Cancer (Part 2)Juliana Pereira returns for Part 2 of her powerful two-part interview — and this chapter reveals the depth of her resilience.Now working as a Geotechnical Engineer, Juliana carries not only the technical responsibility of her profession, but also a deep sense of purpose. As a woman in STEM, she understands the weight of representation and the importance of opening doors for the next generation.But engineering complex structures is not the greatest challenge she has faced.Just a few years ago, Juliana was diagnosed with uterine cancer — a life-altering moment that reshaped her perspective on ambition, urgency, and legacy. Rather than retreat, she leaned in. She refused to let circumstance define her trajectory.In this deeply moving episode, Juliana speaks about balancing purpose with vulnerability, navigating health challenges while pursuing excellence, and committing to a future that extends far beyond her own career.Her story is about strength, survival, leadership, and the unwavering belief that women belong — and lead — in STEM.Episode Summary02:29 – Simon provides context on Civil Engineering and Geotechnical Engineering. 03:42 – Juliana reflects on transitioning from Journalism to Engineering and the impact of that shift. 06:04 – Why has there historically been limited representation of women in STEM? 09:37 – How Purdue University’s Women in Engineering program is shaping the future. 11:38 – Projects Juliana has worked on as a Geotechnical Engineer, including research involving lunar lava tubes. 13:27 – How she is metaphorically “visiting the moon” through her work. 14:19 – How her life changed after being diagnosed with uterine cancer. 18:36 – Continuing to work and dream after diagnosis — and realizing that life does not pause. 21:02 – How her perspective on success and legacy evolved. 23:25 – Pursuing a Ph.D. with the goal of becoming a professor while remaining rooted in engineering practice. 26:05 – Integrating her past media experience with her STEM career. 28:43 – Environmental challenges and how her engineering work contributes to a better world. 31:36 – Final advice for students inspired by her journey.