Greatly and Brightly: Thriving as a woman in engineering

Irene Seo, P.Eng shares her woman in engineering career journey from an early role in civil engineering to a director role with global influence.

I’m Irene Seo, P.Eng., but most people here know me as GreatIrene. That nickname isn’t about ego; it’s about connection, recognition, and the energy I bring to my work. Over my years at AtkinsRéalis, I’ve evolved from a civil engineering specialist to a director influencing global capabilities, a.k.a. the glue that connects people and capabilities worldwide. As a woman in engineering, my career journey has been filled with challenges, opportunities, and incredible people who have shaped my career and life.

Civil engineering Specialist: Projects that shape careers

I joined AtkinsRéalis in September 2011 as a Civil Engineering Specialist in Toronto. We were a small Mass Transit team at the time, modelled after our successful group in Vancouver. My engineering projects were memorable: Hurontario-Main LRT planning, Ottawa’s Confederation Line, the Sheppard Maintenance and Storage Facility, Waterloo Rapid Transit Stage 1, and the Eglinton Crosstown LRT.

Beyond technical experience, these projects taught me strategic thinking, resilience, conflict resolution, negotiation, and how to build credibility in a competitive industry. They also gave me visibility, which opened the door to new roles and bigger responsibilities within the company.

Expanding leadership skills to connect people worldwide

Over time, I moved from delivering individual projects to mobilizing major ones, developing and implementing global capability frameworks, and taking on pursuits that stretched my leadership skills.

Today, I’m the Director of Business Development for Operations & Maintenance specifically supporting asset management practice expansion in Canada and facilities management for healthcare and defence clients, and the Project Director for major programs like the TTC Enterprise Asset Management Professional Services, the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, and Infrastructure Ontario’s Utility Twin Advisor.

These multiple job functions and roles can be summed up by my unofficial job title, the glue. I naturally bring people together and keep them connected, whether they’re across the table or the globe.

Come for incredible career opportunities, stay for the people.

What do I enjoy most about my job? Without hesitation, the answer is: people. I’m surrounded by colleagues I trust, learn from, and share laughs with. I get challenges that elevate my expertise, opportunities that excite me, and the privilege of making a difference in other people’s work and lives. After a day’s work, I bring home the smiles and laughter I’ve shared, and I know I’m in the right place.

My inspiration as a leader and a woman in engineering: Greatness and brightness

Two words guide me every day: greatness and brightness. They remind me to contribute meaningfully, to be visible for the value I bring, and to shine a light on others so they feel empowered and appreciated. My email sign-off, Greatly and Brightly, isn’t just a phrase. It’s a commitment to creating an environment where people can do their best work and lift each other.

I’ve been fortunate to build my career in an environment that values talent and capability, but I know not every woman in engineering leadership has had the same experience. While industry-wide barriers like outdated perceptions and unequal opportunities still exist, I’m proud to see growing momentum for change—and to be part of a workplace that actively supports women in engineering career advancement at every stage of leadership.

AtkinsRéalis’ Diversity and Inclusion Culture: Respect, collaboration, and recognition

AtkinsRéalis actively promotes diversity and inclusion. Our leaders are clear about their mission and vision, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and recognition. Through regular feedback channels such as Vox surveys, our voices are acknowledged, and our growth is encouraged. It’s a place where you can develop your career and contribute to the company's growth in return.

In my team, challenges are shared, and so are solutions. We combine diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences to solve problems more creatively. We support one another, learn from setbacks, and create space for risk-taking, active listening, and constructive feedback. That trust is what drives innovation.

Ultimate career goal: Changing people's lives

From my first day as a woman in engineering, from a civil engineering specialist to a global initiative leader, my career at AtkinsRéalis has been a constant evolution. I’ve learned that greatness isn’t about a title—it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives and the culture you help build.

And so I sign off, as always: Greatly and Brightly.

Working at AtkinsRéalis offers a chance to be the change in the world. If you’re ready to contribute to meaningful projects and be recognized for your unique strengths, explore our current career opportunities and start your journey with us.