Building connections beyond roads and bridges

Explore how transportation connects communities and transforms everyday life—beyond roads and bridges.

Hi, I’m Mandy, and I lead strategic communications for transportation projects at AtkinsRéalis. In simple terms, I help tell the story behind the roads, bridges, and tolls you use every day, helping to make sure communities understand what’s coming, why it matters, and how it impacts their lives.

What I love most about my role is the variety. One day I’m planning communications for Florida’s largest infrastructure initiative; the next, I’m working on a hyper-local micromobility study. Over the years, I’ve helped organize hiring events that brought hundreds of new professionals into the transportation industry, developed leadership courses for state DOTs, conducted media training, and even taught AI literacy and critical thinking to transportation teams. I’ve also worked on projects that shaped environmental legislation and designed communications for studies on long-term vessel storage impacts. It’s never boring, and that’s what keeps me energized.

Why transportation? It’s bigger than you think.

When I first started, I didn’t realize how much this industry touches everyday life. Now, I can explain why Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) added chevron signs on a curve we’ve driven for 20 years or show my daughters what rumble strips sound like and how they keep drivers safe. I even know where to look up details on road construction projects and share what improvements are coming. Those moments remind me how much our work matters.

Every project feels different, and every one of them makes a real impact- whether it’s advancing congestion relief by decades or helping rural communities get the improvements they need. Seeing that difference firsthand is powerful.

Making a real difference

At AtkinsRéalis, I’ve worked on projects that helped rural communities clearly articulate their priorities, so infrastructure projects truly meet their needs. I’ve also contributed to studies on environmental and economic impacts that informed legislation, and knowing that your work effects real change is incredibly rewarding.

What sets us apart? The people

For me, the most meaningful part of my job isn’t the projects, though. It’s the people. At AtkinsRéalis, my teammates and colleagues are smart, kind, funny, and genuinely committed to doing great work. My non-engineer perspective is valued, and my questions are always welcomed. When I raise a concern or request support, I’m heard. And my off-time? It’s respected. That kind of culture matters.

The best part of the job? The relationships

Without a doubt, the people I work with make this job rewarding. They inspire me every day and make this industry feel like home.

Ready to build your future?

If my story resonates with you, maybe it’s time to explore a career in transportation. This industry needs communicators, engineers, planners, innovators, and people who care about making a difference.