Mums in Tech ft. Juliana Smith
As part of our ‘Mums in Tech’ series, we caught up with Juliana Smith, Project Controls Manager at Turner & Townsend.
The purpose of our 'MotherBoard’ content series is to highlight incredible working mums within tech, as well as individuals and businesses that are supportive and progressive within their approach to creating more inclusive tech teams for women.
Firstly, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your current role?
Hi there! My name is Juliana Smith. I’m originally from Brazil, and my career in tech was kind of accidental! Growing up, I had no interest in technology, I loved flicking through old encyclopaedias and watching nature documentaries. When it came time to choose a career, I decided to pursue a BSc in Oceanography. It was at university that I first learnt how to code and developed a passion for uncovering insights from data.
I began my career in Data Science and Ocean Research but later transitioned to the Marine Seismic Industry as a Navigator, where technology was at the core of everything we did. After a work-related injury, I took a career break and welcomed my beautiful baby boy, who’s now seven years old.
Returning to work was challenging, and my initial role had nothing to do with technology, but eventually, I crossed paths with data again. Since 2020, I’ve specialised in Power BI, transforming complex project information into clear, actionable insights that help stakeholders confidently track progress and tackle challenges head-on. I currently work as a Reporting Lead at Costain, where I drive the creation of accessible, high-impact data visualisations and Power BI reports that inform project decision-making and build trust in data.
If you could sum up what it’s like being a working mum in tech in one sentence, what would it be?
It’s a constant balancing act between ambition and compassion that thrives on genuine understanding from employers.
How do you find a balance between your career and motherhood?
It’s been really difficult! But as my son has grown older and more independent, I’ve been able to dedicate more time to developing my skills and taking on new challenges. It took me more than five years to feel like I truly found balance. Setting clear boundaries early on has been crucial — without them, it’s easy to feel pulled in every direction.
“It took me more than five years to feel like I truly found balance. Setting clear boundaries early on has been crucial — without them, it’s easy to feel pulled in every direction.”
What has been your greatest challenge as a working mother in tech?
I work in consultancy, where mobility is key. Many employers still expect an office presence, and I’ve had to turn down great opportunities because I couldn’t commit to travel. My son is neurodivergent and thrives on routine, so major disruptions can be hard for him. Balancing my career ambitions with his needs has been my biggest challenge, and also my greatest motivation.
What skills have you developed as a mother that have helped your work life?
Definitely resilience, and the ability to function with very little sleep! Motherhood has made me fearless; challenges that used to feel overwhelming now seem manageable. It’s given me perspective and confidence. I truly feel that if I can handle motherhood, I can handle anything, it’s like a superpower!
When you were returning to work, what one thing helped you / would have helped you the most?
Returning to work was incredibly hard. I was not only coming back from a career break but also changing career paths in a completely new country. At the time, there was an organisation called Women Returners (now Career Returners), and I attended one of their workshops in partnership with BNY Mellon here in Manchester. It helped me understand transferable skills, the importance of networking, and most importantly, it helped rebuild my self-esteem. Once I was back in work, mentoring played a huge role in helping me adapt and grow in my new career.
What do you feel should be the top priority for employers who want to support working mothers better?
Flexibility! It feels like we’re moving backwards in that regard, more and more organisations are demanding an office presence again, and that’s extremely difficult for parents to manage. I’ve even considered leaving the industry at times, but I’ve been fortunate to find managers who truly value work-life balance. When employers trust their people and support flexibility, it benefits everyone. I deliver my best work when I can also be there for my son.
Any final words of advice for other mothers in the Tech Industry?
Set boundaries! Know your worth, and don’t be afraid to say no or to prioritise your family. There’s often pressure to prove yourself in tech but remember that your wellbeing matters just as much as your performance. For employers, I’d say this: a happy mum is a more productive professional!
“Set boundaries! Know your worth, and don’t be afraid to say no or to prioritise your family.”
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