Building real-world experience: An early career in engineering at AtkinsRéalis

Starting a career in engineering can be a big transition from academic study to real-world practice. This blog highlights how early career professionals at AtkinsRéalis develop technical skills, gain on-site experience, and grow through collaboration, networking, and hands-on project work.

Hi I'm Mohammed, I am an Assistant Engineer at AtkinsRéalis. Starting my early career in engineering at AtkinsRéalis has been eye opening, fast paced, and highly collaborative. Making the jump from academic studies to professional practice was a big adjustment. 

Access to industry standard software packages was embedded early in my career, making me digitally literate and enabling me to actively participate in projects in a meaningful way from the outset. I was glad I had a little exposure to CAD whilst at university which helped me a lot. 

Highlights and shared experiences

One of the biggest highlights of my experience so far has been taking part in in person early careers events organised by the company. I found these incredibly valuable and honestly wish there were more throughout the graduate scheme. Meeting other graduates at a similar stage in their careers makes a real difference. It reminds you that you are not navigating everything alone and that there is a strong early careers community around you.

The graduate finale event was particularly memorable. It gave me a much broader view of how large and varied AtkinsRéalis really is. Speaking to early careers colleagues from different parts of the business helped me understand the wide range of roles and opportunities available. It highlighted how many different directions a career here can take.

I have also really valued the on site experiences I have had, including visits to Wantage in Oxford and Grendon in Aylesbury as part of offsite Highway Works. These opportunities offered me the chance to see things being built which I designed. Being on site provided important insight into the industry and allowed me to connect what I was learning in my role with real project environments. Seeing work in action helped bring everything together and made the learning feel more tangible.

Advice for future applicants

If you are thinking about applying, my advice would be to take the time to speak with current early careers colleagues, particularly those already working within the team you are interested in. These conversations can give you a clearer picture of the type of work you might be doing and whether it aligns with what you want from your career.

Once you join, immerse yourself in every opportunity that comes your way. Building a strong network across the business is incredibly valuable, and being proactive will help you get the most from your experience. Setting clear goals, asking questions, and seeking feedback regularly all play an important part in continued development and growth.

Reflecting on the journey so far

Overall, my early careers journey at AtkinsRéalis has been full of learning, connection, and discovery. It has challenged me while also providing strong support and opportunities to grow. Staying open to new experiences and making the most of the people around you can lead to far more development than you might expect at the start of your career. Explore our Early Careers opportunities.