Finding your path: growing, belonging and thriving at AtkinsRéalis

Starting a career can feel uncertain, especially when it’s unclear where it might lead. This blog explores how AtkinsRéalis helps early career professionals discover new opportunities, build confidence, and grow in an environment where individuality and collaboration are valued.

Discovering what is possible

Hi I'm Josh, I am an Assistant Building Surveyor in the Buildings and Places team. Before I applied to AtkinsRéalis, I did not fully understand the size of the company or the range of industries it supports. Early in your career, it is not always easy to see where your path might lead. What became clear to me once I joined, was just how many different routes can open up over your career.

AtkinsRéalis is involved in far more than what you might imagine from a typical day to day role. There are many sectors, teams and opportunities to learn from, which means your career does not need to stay fixed in one place. It can grow as your interests develop and as you gain a better understanding of your strengths.

I also think it is important to understand the culture and values of a company before applying. Taking the time to do this helps you see how well you might fit and where you could make a real contribution. For me, that understanding had a positive impact on my experience and helped shape my journey from the start.

Being myself at work

One of the most important things my early careers experience has taught me, is that I can genuinely be myself at work. Feeling comfortable bringing my personality into what I do has been a huge part of my journey, and it has made a real difference to my confidence and progression.

One of my biggest career highlights so far has been being recognised for what I am good at. I am naturally sociable and approachable, and those qualities have helped me become an early careers leader. That recognition showed me that supporting others matters and that personal strengths are valued.

I have regularly acted as a buddy for new starters, helping them settle into the business and feel welcome. I have also supported people in voicing their opinions and building confidence when speaking up. Creating a supportive environment is something I care about deeply, and I am proud to play a part in helping others feel comfortable and included.

Growing through support and development

Another area of my experience that has stood out is the opportunity to mentor other early career colleagues. Helping others grow into their roles and gain confidence has been incredibly rewarding, and it has also helped me develop both professionally and personally.

Professional development and mentorship have played a big role in shaping my experience. Being able to learn, guide others and continue developing has helped me build a career that feels meaningful and well supported. That combination of learning and contributing has been one of the most positive aspects of working here.

My advice if you are thinking about applying

If you are considering applying, I would recommend taking the time to learn about AtkinsRéalis social values, the sectors it works in and the projects it delivers. This gives you a clearer picture of the company’s impact and helps you understand where you might fit.

Most importantly, be yourself. From my experience, who you are really matters here. AtkinsRéalis values collaboration and teamwork, with different disciplines working together to deliver projects. If you are open, curious and willing to work with others, there is real space to grow, contribute and thrive together. Explore our Early Careers opportunities.