Juana Pereyra facts for kids

Juana Pereyra (born in 1897, died in 1976) was a groundbreaking Uruguayan civil engineer. She was one of the very first women to complete her studies at the Faculty of Engineering of the Universidad de la República. Her work helped build important parts of Uruguay.

Early Life and Education

Juana Pereyra was born in Montevideo, Uruguay, on November 8, 1897. From a young age, she showed a special talent for mathematics in school.

At that time, it was unusual for women to pursue careers in engineering. Juana faced some challenges, including her family's initial concerns. However, she was determined to follow her passion.

She enrolled in the Faculty of Engineering at the Universidad de la República. In November 1920, she graduated with excellent grades. She earned the title of Ingeniera de Puentes y Caminos, which means Engineer of Bridges and Roads. This achievement made her one of the first female engineers in all of South America.

Her Engineering Career

Juana Pereyra was not only an engineer but also a strong supporter of women's rights. She joined the Working Committee of the Consejo Nacional de Mujeres (National Women's Council). This group was led by Paulina Luisi, a famous feminist and Uruguay's first female doctor.

Even while she was still a student, Juana began teaching. In 1917, she taught mathematics and physics at the Universidad de Mujeres (Women's University). Later, in 1924, she started teaching Bridge and Road engineering at the Faculty of Engineering where she had studied.

Juana also became a key member of the technical team at the Dirección Nacional de Vialidad (National Roads Directorate). Here, she worked on many important construction projects. She helped build the Centennial Bridge in Paso de los Toros and worked on bridge projects in Las Piedras and San Ramón over the Santa Lucia river.

Her successful career led her to become a founding member of the Uruguayan Academia Nacional de Ingeniería (ANIU). This is a national academy for engineers.

Juana Pereyra passed away in Montevideo on December 16, 1976.

Lasting Legacy

To honor her contributions, a street in Montevideo was named after her: Ing. Juana Pereyra Avenue. This helps remember her as a pioneer for women in engineering and a vital part of Uruguay's development.

See also

In Spanish: Juana Pereyra para niños