Pathways and Perspectives: Voices of Two Civil Engineers at AtkinsRéalis
Exploring the behind-the-scenes of professional journeys within a company can offer a fascinating perspective on challenges, successes, and lessons learned. In this article, we had the privilege of meeting Nikki and Illya, two remarkable civil engineers from AtkinsRéalis. Join us as we delve into their stories, trials, achievements, and lessons learned at the heart of the civil engineering industry.
Nikki Tan Illya Romanskyy
What is your role at AtkinsRéalis?
Illya Romanskyy: My current title is Senior Civil Engineer, Group Leader, but I still go by “Civil Engineer”. It is always possible to add different suffixes and prefixes to this basic title, but I remain the Engineer, doing the same engineering work – designing infrastructure, applying my expertise for the project reviews, mentoring junior designers and EITs.
Nikki Tan: At AtkinsRéalis I work as a civil engineer in the Roads and Highways Group. When I first joined the company over 10 years ago, I initially began by contributing to drafting tasks for civil and utilities works on the Eglinton Crosstown LRT project. Over the past decade, my role has evolved significantly, now focusing primarily on design aspects, particularly for underground utilities, parking lots, and roadwork, including the integration of bike lanes into infrastructure projects. In an addition to my contributions to the ECLRT, I also lend my skills to various other projects. I have taken on a specialized role as the go-to person for accessible trail design, having successfully designed several trails in York Region, Ontario in the last few years.
Tell us a little bit about your background
Illya: After graduating as a Civil Engineer (specializing in road and airfield design and construction) I worked at a university dividing my time between science and real roadway projects. I participated in different projects and highway research in Ukraine, Russia, Germany, and Austria. These gave me very good experience and confidence in myself. Then, after immigrating to Canada I started as a junior draftsman, but it didn’t take too much time for me to confirm my qualifications and experience and to get an engineering license. I took part in many different projects (roads, highways, LRT, BRT) and I can say that every 400-series highway in Ontario has a part of my work (some have a big part, some have a small).
What inspired you to become an engineer?
Nikki: Growing up, I had no idea what I wanted as a future career. In high school I excelled in math and physics, which led me to consider engineering as a logical choice for university studies. I was initially drawn to aerospace engineering for its allure, but it was in my third year of university that I stumbled upon transportation engineering. The satisfaction of designing roads and other civil infrastructure resonated with me deeply; it felt like solving tangible, real-world puzzles. I realized I wanted to do work that not only had visible impacts, but also served practical purposes for the community, such as enabling the smooth flow of traffic or facilitating efficient public transportation systems.
What is the best thing about your job?
Illya: The best thing in my job is when I finally get to see the results of my work. I am proud to drive on the highways I designed and show my kids or my friends the elements that were done by me.
What is the coolest thing you are working on?
Nikki: Currently, the coolest project I’m involved in is the Northern Road Link (NRL) project. The NRL is a significant undertaking aiming to improve transportation infrastructure in the Northern regions of Ontario and facilitate better connectivity and accessibility to Indigenous communities. What makes this project particularly exciting is the array of unique challenges it presents. From harsh environmental conditions to logistical hurdles associated with remote locations, each aspect demands innovative solutions. It is incredibly rewarding to contribute to a project that has the potential to make a meaningful impact on regional development and accessibility. Furthermore, I will have the opportunity to showcase our work on the NRL through a presentation at this year’s Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) conference in Vancouver.
What has been your favorite project so far?
Nikki: My favorite project so far has been the project to design new airport terminals for small, remote airports in Northern Ontario with MTO Remote Airports. These airports play a vital role in serving indigenous communities so isolated that access is limited to airplanes or ice roads. Witnessing the conditions of the existing terminals during a three-day site visit was eye opening; they were essentially single room structures lacking basic amenities such as running water and reliable heating. What made this project especially memorable was the unique experience of traveling to each location in a small six-seater airplane. This immersive site visit not only provided invaluable insights into the challenges faced by these remote communities but also highlighted the significance of the project in improving their infrastructure and connectivity. It's been deeply rewarding to contribute to initiatives that directly impact the lives of people in such remote and underserved regions.
Illya: When I started my career as a civil engineer, I was involved in a very interesting project – The widening of an old bridge. It was one of the first concrete bridges in Europe, constructed in 1911-1912. I had to read the original documents in German and Polish languages and get familiar with the bridge and road standards almost a century old. Till now I remember the excitement I worked on this project with, the many hours of overtime I spent for my post-graduate self-education, and my older colleagues who shared their professional experience with me. And I remember the very symbolic moment when we took a picture of ourselves – all designers stayed under this bridge when after testing it was opened for the traffic. It is a very old tradition – to show to the public, that we, engineers, are responsible for what we design. This widened bridge serves people till today.
What makes a good day for you at work?
Illya: Two things. First, when I know what I am doing, and the project starts taking shape. Second, meeting friendly colleagues who share the same passion for the projects and civil design.
What would you say to someone thinking of joining AtkinsRéalis?
Illya: It is a great place where you could start your career, apply your experience, or implement professional ambitions.
What are the main challenges female leaders can face in the workplace?
Nikki: Female leaders in the workplace, in engineering especially, encounter a variety of challenges which stem from longstanding gender biases and stereotypes within the field. One significant challenge is the gender imbalance, where women are underrepresented in leadership positions. This can create a lack of female role models and mentors, making it harder for aspiring female engineers to envision themselves in leadership roles. Additionally, there may be implicit biases and stereotypes that undermine women's authority and competence, leading to difficulties in gaining respect and recognition for their work. However, I have been fortunate at AtkinsRéalis in that I have always been surrounded by amazing women on the engineering team.
What advice would you give to young individuals seeking to join AtkinsRéalis?
Nikki:
- Embrace Your Passion: Pursue engineering with enthusiasm and dedication. Let your passion for the field drive your commitment to learning and professional growth.
- Build Your Skills: Focus on developing strong technical skills in your chosen engineering discipline and never stop learning. Seek out opportunities for lunch and learns, training, and additional courses. Ask your colleagues about projects they’re currently working on. I find that people like to talk about their work and I always end up learning something.
- Be Confident: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Trust that you have the skills and knowledge to succeed in the engineering industry, and don't hesitate to showcase your talents and ideas.
- Advocate for Yourself: Speak up about your accomplishments, goals, and opportunities you are interested in.
How do you see us doing things differently in the future?
Illya: I’m a little conservative by nature (who isn’t at my age?) and I do not expect that revolutionary things and methods will happen that would make everything different in Civil Engineering. It’s one of the oldest professions in humankind. But I see Civil Engineering as a very important part of progress. Not the technical progress only, but all aspects of human life – where we live, how we live and what are we planning for the future. The results of our work will last decades at least or even centuries. I think we will enhance our work by integrating more advanced instruments and software tools, including the application of artificial intelligence (AI) systems for the planning and decision analyses. This approach could refine our project workflow, making it more resilient to errors and cost-efficient.
Fun fact about you
Illya: I collect graphite pencils, not just ordinary pencils, but wooden, professionals, for the technical drawings only. I started my hobby when all drawings were done using pencils, rulers, and paper. The collection has about 2 thousand items now. It is the biggest professional pencil collection in Canada.
Nikki: Over the past four years, I've dedicated most of my free time to fostering neonatal kittens for Toronto Cat Rescue. This involves taking in kittens that have been found, abandoned, or surrendered, and nurturing them until they're ready for adoption. This commitment often means waking up at all hours of the night to bottle-feed orphaned kittens, administering medications, and showering them with love and care. Through this journey, I've had the privilege of welcoming 111 foster cats into my home. Despite the inevitable messiness that comes with caring for these tiny (but mighty) creatures, the experience has been incredibly fulfilling, fun, and rewarding.
Feeling inspired by Nikki and Illya's journey? Ready to make your mark in civil engineering? Join our team at AtkinsRéalis and be part of shaping the future of infrastructure. Apply now and embark on your own remarkable professional journey!
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles

Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
02/04/2025
Summary
Hi, I'm Ahmad, the regional leader of AtkinsRéalis' Power New Build team here in the Northwest of England. Why did I join AtkinsRéalis? I wanted to be part of a world-class engineering services p

Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/31/2025
Summary
Sophie, a Building Surveyor at AtkinsRéalis, tells all about life in Bristol You’ve probably already seen the photos of hot air balloons drifting over Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Clifton Suspensi

Preview
AustraliaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/31/2025
Summary
The rail sector is at the heart of Australia’s infrastructure revolution, spanning more than 36,064km of track and powering economic growth, innovation, and connectivity. Once reliant on imported as

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/31/2025
Summary
Do you want to fuel your career with purpose and watch your impact grow? Would you like to make an impact and join the global net zero revolution? Do you have what it takes to lead the nuclear r

by
Shailaja Mantha

Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/29/2025
Summary
The future of electrical engineering is bright, and its influence on industries like automotive, energy, and wearable technology is growing exponentially. At AtkinsRéalis, electrical engineers are a

Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/28/2025
Summary
What does it take to transform an industry? Hard work, innovative technology, and a culture that fosters creativity. This is how AtkinsRéalis, a global leader in project management, engineering

Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/28/2025
Summary
If you are thinking of global career move to KSA, head on to read Sarah’s story on how she relocated to KSA for her work. Hi I’m Sarah, and I joined the AtkinsRéalis Graduate Program to work in T

Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/24/2025
Summary
Infrastructure in the Middle East is developing at a rapid rate. With projected growth of 2.9% by 2030, opportunities in the region aren’t slowing down any time soon. Central to this transformati

Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/24/2025
Summary
At AtkinsRéalis, we’ve had a big part to play in shaping the skyline and infrastructure of the UAE. Having contributed for over 50 years, we’ve been proud supporters of the rapid growth and ambitio

Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/24/2025
Summary
Hello, I'm Amalia, a senior billing specialist at AtkinsRéalis in Romania. On my first day at the organization, I had mixed feelings— I felt a little fear but also confidence that I would be fine

Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/23/2025
Summary
Our journey began in Bangalore, India, as six professionals representing various disciplines from the Global Technology Centre (GTC) embarked on a month-long secondment to lead the Project off

by
Akash Kumar

Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/23/2025
Summary
Breaking into a career in civil engineering can feel like navigating uncharted territory. However, Venus Chan, a Graduate Engineer at AtkinsRéalis in Hong Kong, offers an inspiring example of h
Related jobs
Salary
Location
Kincardine
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project controls
Market
Nuclear
Category
Permanent
Location
Kincardine
Description
Senior Project Controls ManagerAre you looking for a company that works on major engineering projects all over the world? Do you want to make a difference by improving the daily lives of communities w
Reference
R-126737
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Toronto
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Procurement
Market
Transportation
Category
Permanent
Location
Toronto
Description
Highway Construction AdministratorAre you looking for a company that works on major engineering projects all over the world? Do you want to make a difference by improving the daily lives of communitie
Reference
R-126709
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Mississauga
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Information technology
Market
Corporate
Category
Permanent
Location
Mississauga
Description
IT Support TechnicianCome join us in reshaping the future with AtkinsRéalis. AtkinsRéalis is dedicated in engineering a better future for our planet and its people.The Desktop Technician will be respo
Reference
R-126701
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Montréal
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Water
Category
Permanent
Location
Montréal
Description
The job description in English will follow.Veuillez noter que cet affichage de poste a pour but de constituer une banque de candidatures pour des besoins futurs.Nous recherchons un(e) Gestionnaire de
Reference
R-126674
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Montréal
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Water
Category
Permanent
Location
Montréal
Description
The job description in English will follow.Veuillez noter que cet affichage de poste a pour but de constituer une banque de candidatures pour des besoins futurs.Nous recherchons un(e) Gestionnaire sé
Reference
R-126673
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Mississauga
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Market
Nuclear
Category
Permanent
Location
Mississauga
Pickering
Description
Senior / Lead Operational Health Physicist, Candu Reactor RefurbishmentWe are looking for numerous Senior/Lead Health Physicists for CANDU reactor refurbishment projects nationally and/or internationa
Reference
R-126670
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Québec
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Electrical engineering
Market
Industrial & manufacturing
Category
Permanent
Location
Montréal
Québec
Description
Ingénieur(e) en électricité industrielleAtkinsRéalis est présentement à la recherche d’un(e) ingénieur en électricité industrielle afin de soutenir la croissance du bureau et de l’équipe déjà en place
Reference
R-126634
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Mississauga
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Engineering (Other)
Market
Nuclear
Category
Permanent
Location
Mississauga
Description
Piping AnalystAre you looking for a company that works on major engineering projects all over the world? Do you want to make a difference by improving the daily lives of communities worldwide? Are you
Reference
R-126632
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Jonquière
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Minerals & metallurgy
Category
Permanent
Location
Jonquière
Description
Coordonnateur(trice) régional(e) et Chargé(e) de projets, AluminiumLa division Service d’ingénierie – Mines et Métallurgie est à la recherche d’un(e) Coordonnateur Régional et Chargé de projet senior
Reference
R-126495
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Québec
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Design engineering
Market
Industrial & manufacturing
Category
Permanent
Location
Québec
Description
Technicien(ne) en Instrumentation et ContrôleRejoignez-nous pour remodeler l'avenir avec AtkinsRéalis. AtkinsRéalis se consacre à l'ingénierie d'un avenir meilleur pour notre planète et ses habitants.
Reference
R-126482
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
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