Insights An exciting start to a career in hydraulic engineering

Meet with Sophie, Engineer-in-training (EIT) in hydraulics in Quebec City, Canada. As a member of the Road Engineering Hydraulics and Drainage team, Sophie talks about what she enjoys about her position and the exciting projects she is working on with AtkinsRéalis, including the construction of the new Île d’Orléans Bridge.

1. What is your role at AtkinsRéalis?

I’m an Engineer-in-training (EIT) in hydraulics. I’m in the Road Engineering Hydraulics/Drainage team.

2. What do you enjoy most about your current job?

What I enjoy most about my job is the variety of tasks I can perform. I also like teamwork and learning from the expertise of my colleagues. There is always someone who can help me or guide me towards the right solutions.

3. Why do you enjoy working at AtkinsRéalis?

I enjoy working at AtkinsRéalis for several reasons. I like the team I work with and learning from my colleagues. The projects are interesting and diverse. This helps me grow as an EIT.

4. What would you say to a young graduate who is considering joining AtkinsRéalis?

I would say don’t hesitate. The company is so diverse, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The work opportunities are limitless. The company’s diversity and expertise make for good career development.

5. What projects are you currently working on?

I am currently starting a mandate of 11 bridge and culvert hydraulic studies. This involves defining drainage basins, conducting site visits, assessing the basin’s hydrology, modelling the works in current and future conditions and finally making reconstruction or repair recommendations through a report.

6. What has been your favourite project so far and why?

I must admit that the project to build the new Île d’Orléans Bridge is my favourite one. I have almost worked full-time on this project in the past year. I performed numerical drainage modelling for storm water pipe sizing and hydraulic studies of some of the project’s structures. I was involved in writing the reports for the various emissions. I feel like I’m growing as the project progresses. The project’s scope is very broad, as is the variety of tasks and their complexity. I’m grateful to have started on a project like this that helps me grow.

7. What initiatives or resources are available at AtkinsRéalis for women in engineering?

The company created the Women in Engineering Network and the ExcELLEnce Employee Resource Group (ERG) for women leaders. Both the vice-president of my department and the president, Canada, are women. I believe having women in leadership roles is important to represent women in the field and is also very inspiring.

Are you a young graduate at the beginning of your career looking for an opportunity? Are you interested in our projects and want to be part of them? Apply now and join us!