How global carbon training boosts my sustainable leadership at AtkinsRéalis

I joined carbon training for the skills – and left with a whole new perspective on leading across borders.

I'm Gordon, Head of the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) team in Hong Kong. I joined AtkinsRéalis' carbon training program to engage with global colleagues – experts shaping sustainability strategies across different markets. I also wanted to contribute more meaningfully to our carbon reduction goals, and the program offered the tools, insights, and network to make that happen.

It didn't disappoint. One memorable moment was a group session where we developed a hypothetical carbon reduction strategy. The collaboration, creativity, and diverse perspectives in that exercise were genuinely inspiring – a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together toward a common goal.

What I gained from global collaboration and cross-regional learning?

Having completed the program, I see my role evolving to include more strategic responsibilities. As head of the MEP team in Hong Kong, I’m now better equipped to lead sustainability initiatives, influence project designs, and advocate for carbon reduction strategies at a higher level within the organization. It’s a natural step forward for my career and it fits perfectly with our organization’s push for a sustainable future.

Going forward, I'm also a member of the Carbon Specialist Network – something I'm really proud of. It shows my commitment to sustainability and my role in driving positive change within our organization. It’s a great space to keep learning, swap ideas, and stay connected with others who care about making a difference. It's invaluable for my professional growth and our collective impact on the environment.

How carbon training transformed my sustainability approach?

The training really opened my eyes to the tools we use at AtkinsRéalis. Now, I’m not just using them, I understand how to make them work smarter in real projects. I now feel far more confident integrating sustainability considerations at every stage of a project, from initial planning through to execution. Beyond the technical side, the program also connected me with key experts across the business, which has been invaluable for guidance and support. It's broadened my network, strengthened my skills, and reinforced a mindset of not just meeting regulatory standards, but striving to exceed them wherever we can.

The first carbon concept I shared with my team

The first thing I shared after the training was the concept of carbon offsetting and how it can be effectively integrated into our projects. I discussed this with my team, and we started exploring ways to proactively incorporate carbon tracking and offsetting strategies into our current and future projects. This has already led to some exciting initiatives.

How I apply carbon knowledge in MEP projects?

One of the most exciting parts of my role is applying carbon knowledge directly to our MEP projects. Whether it's through Retro-Commissioning (RCx), uncovering Energy Savings Opportunities (ESO), or refining energy models, I’m constantly looking for smarter ways to reduce energy use and emissions.

As Deputy Head of MEP, I’m not just applying these strategies - I’m guiding our team to think differently about carbon. We’re moving beyond compliance and into innovation, looking at how every system we design can contribute to a lower-carbon future. Whether it’s optimizing HVAC systems or selecting low-impact equipment, I encourage my team to challenge assumptions and explore smarter solutions. It’s about embedding sustainability into our engineering DNA.

Thanks to the training, I now approach these challenges with a sharper lens - spotting opportunities that weren’t obvious before. For example, we recently reworked a building’s HVAC strategy, cutting energy use by over 20%. That’s the kind of impact that gets clients excited and makes our team proud. It’s not just about hitting targets - it’s about engineering solutions that work for both people and the planet.

How carbon training strengthened best practice and technical skills?

The case study was one of the most eye-opening parts of the program. I collaborated with a multidisciplinary team of planners, architects, structural engineers, and other technical experts from across AtkinsRéalis. Using a real-life project as our backdrop, we explored technical carbon knowledge and the tools we apply in our work, followed by a focused exercise on improving design for better carbon performance.

These sessions, held both virtually and in person at our Dubai office, gave me the chance to learn from others expertise across disciplines. I also gained valuable insight into sustainability measures and design standards used in different regions. The experience was both surprising and challenging – and it deepened my understanding of carbon management in a global context.

My advice for anyone starting out in sustainability

Stay curious and open-minded. Carbon and sustainability are constantly evolving, and there's always something new to learn. Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek out mentors who can guide you. And remember – every small action counts. Whether it's reducing waste in your office or advocating for sustainable practices in your projects, your efforts make a real difference.

The mindset shift from carbon training that will stay with me

One key takeaway from the training is the importance of integrating sustainability into every aspect of our work. It's not just about meeting targets or complying with regulations – it's about making a genuine commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices. This holistic approach has reshaped how I view my role and the impact I can have.

Getting trained in net zero and sustainability isn’t just about ticking boxes, it gives us the tools to make real change happen. It shows how AtkinsRéalis values employee progression and backs its sustainability goals with action. If we want to make a real impact, it’s going to take teamwork. With the right insights and capabilities, we can make data-led decisions that benefit both the environment and the business, and we will engineer a more sustainable and resilient future for everyone. Join us.