Insights Developing software to redefine the way engineers work
Tell us a little bit about your professional background and your current role as technical director in the Digital team in India?
I have more than 22 years of experience in software development, building innovative automation solutions starting from chip designs for high definition setup boxes, to automating and improving x-ray film production quality in the Kodak factory.
My learning and growth experience throughout my career is very diverse. At AtkinsRéalis , I’m currently leading the innovation and automation team at the Global Technology Centre (GTC), helping to redefine and change the way engineers work.
What inspired you to become an engineer?
As a kid, I accompanied my father to the factory and watched him work on heavy equipment. It intrigued me so much, I knew that I wanted to become an engineer. Initially, my engineering interest was predominantly on vehicles and understanding engines. I was fascinated by the physics behind the four-stroke engines. During high school, electrical engineering, or the electrical subtopic, became a key part of my interest area, simply because it was easy to exhibit for school projects. I also found it interesting and exciting to showcase innovations.
Interestingly, I chose electrical engineering as my specialization in my first year of engineering but switched to computer science, as I became fascinated with algorithms. Firstly, computer science improved my logical thinking, and secondly, it enabled me to innovate using a single click of a button, sitting in a remote place and managing things outside of my physical location or boundary.
I’m happy that I made that decision because that’s my passion, interest and strength.
What is the coolest thing you are working on?
I’m currently exploring blockchain to understand how we can apply its technologies to solve our engineering problems, like our financial invoicing and reconciliation issues. I’m working with the project management office (PMO) team to see if we can apply blockchain technologies to improve the quality of data that comes in for insights and analysis.
While blockchain is more like a hobby or technology exploration, digital twin is the most exciting for me. Two years ago, we started working on capturing and automating drone images for generating a BIM model engineers can use to increase the level of details. We did some experiments with drones at our RMZ office in Bengaluru and automated the process of creating BIM model. This was an exciting beginning, as we now apply this to different projects such as the King Abdullah Financial District in the Middle East and Thames Water in the UK. For Thames Water, our certified team in the UK captured images using drones and we converted these to 3D interactive applications for users familiarize themselves with the environments. Then we converted these into BIM models, creating a digital twin.
Another cool technology our team in GTC has developed and launched, as well as benefitted from during the early stages of the pandemic, is ASSIST. The first-of-its-kind tool for AtkinsRéalis applies enterprise-scale microservices architecture to develop, deliver and automate a digital inspection tool survey, including an inspection tool that can also generate reports. This is currently live and being used by many of our clients.
At present, some of our team members are also experimenting with geospatial aspects of engineering design. We did a proof of concept in the early bit stage for Denver International Airport where we showcased different design options and their impacts on the engineering and construction processes using geospatial mapping.
What is the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
This was from my very early days at WIPRO where I had the opportunity to interact with Azim Premji. He told me, “Don’t do anything you’re afraid to publish in the newspaper.” This had a big impact on my career. It not only made me focus on integrity in everything I did, but also enthused me with the right passion. This quote from Mr. Premji has been my steppingstone throughout my career, guiding me in this journey.
Recently you’ve been appointed as one of the Atkins fellows. What are some of the key responsibilities that you have as a fellow?
It’s a great honour to be the first Atkins fellow from GTC. I think being a fellow enables me to share the GTC’s technological innovations or voice concerns in a global forum within the EDPM network. It will allow me to showcase the advancements in technology and adoptions across GTC. I am also confident that I’ll be able to push forward the digital agenda much more effectively in a global role, allowing us to standardize the adoptions of some of the best practices we have been performing in GTC.
Being a fellow also allows me to experiment and innovate. I can collaborate with industry partners to jointly solve a problem. I can partner with the universities to look at some of the challenges we’re facing, for which we currently don’t have a solution. These are the two aspects of being a fellow that I plan to take forward.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself?
I think my team members make fun of me for my love for coding. I quite agree with the quote that says, “Code is a ground reality.” During my weekends or whenever I find time, I code and develop gaming applications for my nephews because they are so addicted to games. I do this to give them something fun and to break the monotony of games that are out there on the market.
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
![the three pillars of sustainability](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/_Xu26CRc709AQgjaEnvzHA/75/the+three+pillars+of+sustainability.jpg)
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/04/2024
Summary
What are the three pillars of sustainability? When facing a challenge as mighty as sustainability, it's logical to break the topic into more manageable subtopics - like economic sustainability, envir
![A Picture of Kiran smiling.](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/hye9y-sr3EhNNQjcE2fYDQ/75/Kiran+PC+Expo_3+(1).png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/04/2024
Summary
At AtkinsRéalis, we are dedicated to shaping the future through innovative infrastructure projects that make a significant impact on communities around the world. We are excited to share the ex
![A Picture of Ashley smiling.](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/efFOts4nE0kc7gjcek5B5w/75/Picture3.png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/04/2024
Summary
From starting as a Civil and Structural Engineering Apprentice to leading major projects at AtkinsRéalis, Ashley’s career journey is a testament to the power of passion, leadership, and contin
![A picture of Bobby along with his dog at a café.](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/f55pKSdvokbqdgjcsFVGjQ/75/BobbyMasonThumbnail+(1).png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/02/2024
Summary
Hello, my name is Bobby. After playing professional ice hockey in America and Europe I spent eight years as a Royal Navy submarine weapons and communications engineer. Towards the end of my su
![city at sunset with bridge going over a river](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/_mh_o-Brc0S4_wjaU5OWRg/75/shutterstock_1078734461-min.jpg)
Preview
AustraliaContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/30/2024
Summary
The Australian market is an important growth area for AtkinsRéalis. Over the last 26 years, we have established a strong presence with offices across Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. AtkinsRéalis i
![image of ravikumar](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/_Bf_F1ctS0oQMAjcyJi5pQ/75/Screenshot+2024-08-30+at+12.16.04.png)
Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/30/2024
Summary
My rapid career progression and professional growth across engineering roles at AtkinsRéalis. Hello. I'm Ravikumar from AtkinsRéalis' Global Technology Centre (GTC) in India. As I write this, I'v
![image of bindu](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/cFm6WB0AAUp7XQjcyJ_1eA/75/WhatsApp+Image+2024-08-29+at+1.18.03+PM+(1)+(1).jpeg)
Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/30/2024
Summary
Returning to work after a career break? Bindu shares how AtkinsRéalis can empower your return. Hi, I'm Bindu, an Account Lead at AtkinsRéalis in India. I manage a team of eight that handl
![image of sarah](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/4sECDNnYsEYixAjcyG4n0A/75/Sarah+3+(1).jpg)
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/30/2024
Summary
How I grew my architectural roots into sustainable innovation: my rewarding career journey at AtkinsRéalis. Ahlan wa sahlan! My name is Sarah, and I work for AtkinsRéalis in Cairo. I began my jou
![image of sudhapriya](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/dNxZbtV-00worgjczLN1-Q/75/Sudha-tn.png)
Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/30/2024
Summary
How I mix flexible working and family to thrive as a leader in the Nuclear New Build team. Hello, I'm Sudhapriya. I joined AtkinsRéalis in mid-2017 as contract staff on the Transportation team. A
![image of gobinath smiling](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/QPrib_nVaksivwjcyG4n0A/75/Gobinath+India+(1).jpg)
Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/30/2024
Summary
My rapid career growth at AtkinRéalis from senior engineer to practice manager Nuclear New Build Hello! My name is Gobinath. I graduated from PSG College of Technology in 2008 as a gold medalist.
![A picture of Olu smiling](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/QhoVhIJjTk4_SQjctz8oMA/75/Olu3TN+(1).png)
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/27/2024
Summary
Hi, I'm Olutomide. I work with the Project & Programme Services team at AtkinsRéalis. As a Risk Consultant, I'm part of a diverse team that delivers major infrastructure projects and natio
![Yasmeen Mohammed portrait](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481103/43cc2251-abc6-42a6-bf07-36e410f33bf7/2023.17000.2848/img/0HGNDJnUaUpXjQjcxXh8cg/75/yasmeen2.jpg)
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/26/2024
Summary
Yasmeen Husain Mohamed is a dedicated professional in the field of Talent Acquisition, currently serving as an Advisor at AtkinsRéalis. Her career is built upon a foundation of fostering relatio
Related jobs
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRealis are looking for qualified and experienced Saudi nationals to be part of the PMC team various ongoing and upcoming projects in KSA (Riyadh, Al Khobar, Al Ula, NEOM etc.).About AtkinsRéalis
Reference
R-120077
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Procurement
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for Material Engineer, in Abu Dhabi.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class engineering
Reference
R-120027
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Landscape Architecture
Market
Cities & development
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for Lead Principal Landscape Architect, in UAE.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class
Reference
R-119992
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Administrative support
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for an Executive Secretary / Administrator (Saudi national) to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of lon
Reference
R-119834
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Administrative support
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for a Document Controller (Saudi national) to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organi
Reference
R-119833
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Creative design
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for a Graphic Designer (Saudi national) to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizat
Reference
R-119832
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for a Senior Planning Engineer to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dati
Reference
R-119831
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Health & safety
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for a Construction Site Security Manager to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organiza
Reference
R-119830
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for a Stakeholder Manager (Saudi national) to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organi
Reference
R-119829
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Riyadh
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Riyadh
Description
AtkinsRéalis are looking for a Project Controls Director to pe part of the PMC team on a major programme in Riyadh, KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dat
Reference
R-119828
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
AtkinsRéalis
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We’re devoted to growing the diversity of our people, promoting an inclusive culture, providing everyone with an equal voice because simply put, it’s the right thing to do. Click to learn more.
Find out more