Engineering excellence through career growth and balance

In the fast-paced world of engineering, finding a career path that is both rewarding and sustainable can sometimes feel like trying to solve a complex equation. But imagine a world where work-life balance isn't just a buzzword but a reality, and professional development is a continuous, supported endeavor. Ronald Escote's 17-year career at AtkinsRéalis offers a living example of how these ideals can be realized. His insights provide a roadmap for engineers seeking to carve out a thriving and fulfilling career.

Seventeen years ago, Ronald Escote embarked on his engineering career with AtkinsRéalis. From the outset, he was drawn to the company's commitment to safety, integrity, collaboration, innovation, and excellence. These values resonated deeply with Ronald, who saw them not as mere words on paper but as living principles that permeate every aspect of the company's operations. Throughout his career, his workplace's supportive environment and work-life balance have played pivotal roles in his sustained professional growth.

Ronald's current role is based in the vibrant city of Riyadh, where he oversees various supervision projects across Saudi Arabia. His work often involves traveling to different sites, a responsibility he undertakes with dedication. One memorable project was the Aldara Hospital, which marked the beginning of his permanent assignment in the Kingdom. This experience allowed Ronald to immerse himself in the region's rich culture and unique engineering challenges, enhancing his skills and broadening his perspectives.

One question often posed to professionals like Ronald is what keeps them motivated after so many years with the same company. For Ronald, it's not just the projects or the opportunities but the company's unwavering commitment to its employees' wellbeing. Work-life balance isn't just a mantra—it's a lived experience. At AtkinsRéalis, he found a workplace where his contributions are valued, his growth is nurtured, and his personal life is respected. This holistic approach has been instrumental in his decision to remain with the company for over a decade.

Ronald's career path at AtkinsRéalis is a testament to the company's focus on career growth and development. Starting as a Quality Assurance/Control Engineer (QA/QC Engineer) in Dubai, he quickly advanced to Senior QA/QC Engineer, then to Lead QA/QC Engineer. His consistent performance and dedication eventually led to his promotion as a QA/QC Manager in Saudi Arabia. Ronald's story underscores the importance of recognizing and rewarding talent, encouraging others to aspire for similar growth within their careers.

The culture at AtkinsRéalis is characterized by a strong emphasis on safety, support, integrity, and teamwork. Ronald describes it as a place where employees feel valued and respected, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. This culture is particularly evident in the diverse teams he leads, where collaboration and open communication are encouraged. Working with colleagues from different nationalities has enriched Ronald's experience, offering varying perspectives and solutions to complex engineering challenges.

For Ronald, one of the most rewarding aspects of his role is working alongside a diverse team that shares his commitment to excellence. The ability to collaborate with colleagues from various cultural backgrounds enriches the team's dynamics and enhances the quality of their work. This shared dedication to achieving common goals creates a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, making each project a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

For many professionals, staying with a single company for over 17 years is a significant accomplishment. For Ronald, it's not just about longevity but about the quality of the contributions made along the way. One of his proudest achievements is the assurance that, even after completing a project, his value to the company remains. This confidence stems from the continuous support and recognition he receives, reinforcing the company's dedication to its employees' career growth.

AtkinsRéalis's commitment to professional development is evident in the training and development opportunities available to all employees. Ronald highlights the performance review process, which includes development plans tailored to each employee's needs. These plans enable individuals to pursue necessary training and certifications, continually enhancing their knowledge and skills. The company's investment in its employees' development ensures that they are well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

Innovation is at the heart of engineering excellence, and Ronald has witnessed firsthand how AtkinsRéalis encourages its teams to explore new technologies and methodologies. A notable example is the King Salman Park in Riyadh, where the client required the use of drones for progress reporting. Additionally, the project involved the implementation of SnagR software for snagging and de-snagging inspections. These technological advancements have since been adopted by multiple site supervision projects, showcasing the company's commitment to staying at the forefront of engineering innovation.

In Ronald's experience, the qualities that make a good leader at AtkinsRéalis include humility, supportiveness, integrity, and courage. These attributes are essential for fostering a positive work environment and empowering employees to reach their full potential. Ronald has observed these qualities in many of his superiors, whose leadership has inspired him to continue striving for excellence in his own role.

Looking ahead, Ronald is optimistic about the future of AtkinsRéalis. The company is expanding its capabilities by adopting new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), and leading the charge in Engineering Net Zero (ENZ) programs. With a strong alignment to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, AtkinsRéalis is well-positioned to continue being the engineering consultancy of choice for clients in the Middle East.

Ronald Escote's career at AtkinsRéalis serves as an inspiring example for engineering professionals seeking a fulfilling and sustainable career. For those interested in exploring more about career growth and work-life balance in engineering, additional resources and opportunities for professional development can be found through industry events, training programs, and networking with fellow engineering professionals. By staying informed and engaged, engineers can continue to advance their careers while contributing to the ongoing evolution of the industry.

Are you looking to develop your engineering career in a lead engineering consultancy? Explore opportunities and engineering careers in the Middle East.