Insights Where are YOU taking your career?

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 journey here as an Assistant Architect in March 2023. Since then, I've grown, becoming an accredited professional, and, as of January 2024, starting working as a Sustainability Architect.

Working in sustainability has allowed me to put my academic knowledge into practice. Sustainability aims to meet today's needs without compromising future generations, focussing on the environment, social responsibility, and the economy. Implementing these principles and seeing their impact is incredibly rewarding.

Starting out with the Architecture team

I worked on two major projects with the Architecture team: the Al Gurm House and the YAS IB2 residential tower package. I collaborated across disciplines, implementing design changes and producing drawings during the schematic and detailed design phases.

Exploring my interests at AtkinsRéalis

One of the best things about AtkinsRéalis is that you can put yourself forward for roles outside your regular work. Unlike other workplaces, you can interact with various departments and connect with people from every discipline. You're not just doing your job—you're socializing, meeting people, and learning about different cultures.

Outside of project work, I participate in the Workplace Champion programme, helping new hires settle in. I'm also part of the Sustainability Champions group, preparing sustainability presentations for our Global Technology Centres in India and Cairo. Getting involved in these initiatives is deeply fulfilling, contributing to meaningful change in our community.

Volunteering for different work is how I pivoted into sustainability...

Gaining my LEED certification!

I've been passionate about sustainability from a young age. Since joining AtkinsRéalis, I've been eager to learn and step up more for sustainability roles. So, I decided to pursue the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification programme, which promotes environmentally responsible and resource-efficient building practices. I first earned my LEED GA certification, which covers foundational green principles. I then completed my LEED AP certification in Building Design and Construction.

Supported by senior leaders

We frequently engage with senior leaders who share valuable insights and exchange ideas. My GTC Cairo and India managers supported and encouraged me to proceed with my certification. Senior colleagues, including associate team leaders Gaurav and Sumita from GTC India, recommended I collaborate with the Dubai office. I'm also grateful to Sumita for nominating me for the Sustainable Champions programme.

Turning my passion into a career

My sustainability work has been quite different from what I've worked on before, and it's been going well. Here, we handle multiple projects simultaneously. And you can get involved in projects from the concept design stage. This involves gathering data and participating in workshops with other disciplines. All the projects I've been involved in contribute to the UAE's 2030 Green Agenda. 

Thriving in a supportive workplace

Everyone on the team is genuinely supportive—I've had a lot of encouragement while pursuing something new and different. I'm also supported in developing at a pace that suits me. I set my objectives annually and undergo mid-year evaluations to review my progress. This process helps set clear goals each year, which is very beneficial. The environment at also AtkinsRéalis encourages continuous learning through sessions like lunch and learns, which promote a culture of ongoing skill development and personal growth. 

Let’s just say, the work environment here is fantastic!

Discover more about our Global Technology Centre teams, from Cairo to Bengaluru and Dubai: find a role with us today.