In this episode of She Persists, Sophia and Viana from the Girls of Steel robotics team share what it’s really like to lead one of the most impactful student-run robotics programs in the country. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Girls of Steel is an all-girls robotics organization that goes far beyond competition—mentoring younger teams, leading global outreach initiatives, and creating a pathway that supports girls in STEM from elementary school through high school.

Sophia and Viana talk about how they first got involved in robotics, what surprised them when they joined, and what it takes to run a fully student-led program that supports multiple teams across different age groups. They also share their experiences mentoring younger students, building international connections through FIRST Ladies, and leading outreach programs that have introduced thousands of students to robotics, including initiatives focused on underserved communities.

The conversation also explores the role of accessibility and representation in STEM, the impact of mentorship, and how engineering can be used as a tool for social change—from local workshops to global projects like low-cost robotics education initiatives.

This episode is a powerful look at what happens when leadership, community, and technical innovation come together—and how building robots can ultimately mean building confidence, belonging, and opportunity for the next generation of girls in STEM.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring stories of Keira Morin and Eliza Thurs, two passionate Purdue juniors who are making waves with Engineers Without Borders. From their first days on campus, Keira and Eliza have been on a mission to change the world, one project at a time. In this episode, Keira shares her heartfelt journey leading a water distribution project in Rwanda, where her work is not just about engineering but about bringing hope and change to communities in need. Meanwhile, Eliza opens up about her pioneering research on lung tissue, aiming to make a real difference in women's health globally. These young engineers are not just tackling technical challenges; they're breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a woman in STEM. Balancing the intense demands of Purdue's engineering programs with their drive to make a global impact, Keira and Eliza are proving that engineering is as much about people and passion as it is about numbers and equations. This episode is perfect for anyone who believes in the power of innovation, diversity, and the human spirit. Tune in to hear how Keira and Eliza are turning their dreams into reality and inspiring the next generation to follow in their footsteps.

Meet the women of Ohio State's Formula Buckeyes, who are transforming the world of collegiate racing with their innovative approach to engineering. From humble beginnings, they've built a powerhouse team that's redefining what's possible in motorsports. In this episode, discover how Haley Krueger leads the charge in electronics design, crafting cutting-edge PCB boards for electric race cars. Gabby Anderson shares her journey into carbon fiber composites, creating lightweight, high-strength components that push the limits of performance. Jordan Pelland reveals the secrets of driver ergonomics and its impact on race outcomes, while Michaela Pindroh discusses the power of social media in elevating women's voices in STEM. Learn how these women balance rigorous academics with the demands of high-stakes racing, all while challenging stereotypes and inspiring the next generation of engineers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, diversity, and the future of engineering. Join the Formula Buckeyes as they demonstrate that with determination and creativity, the racetrack is just the beginning.