Breaking down barriers to Engineering Net Zero

I'm Swati, Principal HV Plant Engineer at AtkinsRéalis. I'm part of the Power and Energy Solutions Practice. I work with a huge variety of global clients, delivering Infrastructure projects, HV/LV Substations and Power System Studies. 

As technical lead for various National Grid Substation projects in the UK, I emphasize design solutions that adhere to all the Grid standards, ensuring all design deliverables go through a proper check and review process to minimize errors. I also identify the risks and hazards at a very early stage of our projects, indirectly ensuring the safety of the construction team during the construction phase and the site maintenance team throughout the life of the site equipment.

What I enjoy most about my job is making a real, measurable difference in helping to solve the world's energy crisis. 

These are my top 4 reasons I love doing it inside AtkinsRéalis:

1. I'm engineering better for a zero‑carbon future

As part of our Power and Energy Solutions Practice, I focus on achieving sustainable solutions by minimizing the carbon footprint in our deliverables. I can achieve this through my project work, for example, by providing safe solutions for the earth's atmosphere (e.g. Non‑SF6 gas solution). But I also do it through my smaller, everyday activities, like reducing manhours and repetitive efforts in similar projects using existing project templates, using public transportation for my commute, and working with PDFs instead of paper printouts.

2. My work/life balance is just as sustainable as my work

I really value the flexibility at AtkinsRéalis, and I've been a great beneficiary of it since my pregnancy. I truly believe flexible working has helped me become a well‑rounded professional, able to focus on both work and family very well. Becoming a mother was a turning point in my life, giving me a different and open perspective. And thanks to my flexible work arrangement, I've been able to pursue other passions, such as Yoga and organizing events for the Bengali community in Sutton. 

3. Everything I'm learning is invaluable for my future career

I've been supported to restart and continue my career journey at the same pace while focusing on my daughter and family. AtkinsRéalis welcomed me back from maternity leave with as much flexibility as great projects. I've been working on various National Grid substation projects while planning several certifications and authorizations that will help me accelerate my career journey. I also put in a lot of effort in the subsequent two years to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng, IET) and a certified Project Management Professional with the Project Management Institute. I started this learning journey in India and have continued it even after moving to the UK. 

4. Here, engineering a better future starts in the workplace

I love working with and learning from my brilliant and diverse colleagues at AtkinsRéalis. Outside of fantastic technical knowledge, there is just so much to learn about, including the culture and ways of working. The diversity and acceptance at AtkinsRéalis have been an excellent experience for me. I work with team members of various backgrounds, and everyone's perspectives are equally considered for making decisions. It is also very easy to reach out to senior leaders with ideas or concerns. I see a sense of purpose via the Town Halls and team briefings that bring a sense of ownership and motivation to how I go about my job.

Are you ready to change the world for the better? See where you fit in our Power and Energy Solutions Practice team: browse roles and apply.