The dream that found a home at AtkinsRéalis: Career story of Chandana Hiremath

For Chandana, engineering wasn't just a career choice, it was a dream passed down, a promise to her family, and a path carved with quiet determination. From a small classroom to contributing to major infrastructure projects, her story is more than professional growth. It's about belief—her parents' belief in their daughters, her team's belief in her potential, and ultimately, her belief in herself. With every challenge she faced and every milestone she achieved, Chandana built more than just a career, she built a life of purpose, possibility, and pride at AtkinsRéalis.

Read her story in her own words.

Where it all began

I chose Civil Engineering to fulfil my mother's dream—and now it's mine too.

My name is Chandana, and I'm currently part of the Transportation BIM team at AtkinsRéalis, contributing to the CRSA Railway Drainage project. Every day reminds me of how far I've come and how much further I want to go.

My journey began at Government Women's Polytechnic (SJP Campus), where I pursued my Diploma in Civil Engineering from 2019 to 2022. Like many students, I dreamed of working at a reputable company, though it often felt just out of reach. When AtkinsRéalis visited our campus, it sparked a sense of hope. Being selected wasn't just a milestone; it was a moment of immense pride for me and my family.

During my 5th semester, I was among 30 students chosen for a structured training programme in tools like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Revit. After months of learning and assessments, I was thrilled when it led to a placement opportunity one that opened the door to where I am today.

My first step into the corporate world

When I joined, I was completely new to the professional world. But I found something special here, an environment where questions were welcomed, and learning was encouraged. That sense of belonging gave me the confidence to push further.

My mother once dreamed of being an engineer but couldn't pursue it. When I told her I didn't want to study further after getting a job, she gently reminded me:

Education is something no one can take away from you. It's your strength, your voice, and your freedom.

With her encouragement, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) program at Jyothy Institute of Technology (VTU), balancing work and academics together.

Balancing the two worlds

Managing studies in a full-time role wasn't easy. Academic deadlines, project deliverables, and learning new tools kept me on my toes. But I wasn't alone.

My family stepped in with unwavering support, helping with assignments, staying up late, and cheering me on every step of the way. At work, my manager and team created the space I needed to succeed adjusting workloads during exams and encouraging me through it all. Today, I've completed my degree and grown from a Trainee Designer on contract to Assistant Designer, and now, Designer. I've contributed meaningfully to BIM and engineering tasks and learned from some truly inspiring mentors.

The strength behind me

I come from a close-knit family of five—my parents, my elder sister, my younger sister, and me. Both my parents are accountants, but to me, they've always been so much more. They believed in giving their daughters every opportunity they never had.

Even when relatives questioned why they were investing so much in our education, they never wavered. We were raised to believe we could do anything. 

Today, my elder sister is an Electronics and Communication Engineer, and my younger sister is pursuing Forensic Science. We often choreograph dance routines together for weddings and community events, small moments that have brought us closer and built our confidence. I still hold close to my mother's words:

You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be brave enough to try.

To every young dreamer out there

If there's one thing I've learned, it's this: surround yourself with people who lift you up. Whether it's family, friends, or colleagues, their support makes all the difference.

Stay curious. Stay brave. Pursue what brings you joy whether it's a subject you love, a career you dream of, or a passion outside of work. Believe in your path, even when it feels hard.

At AtkinsRéalis, we believe every journey deserves the right support, just like Chandana's.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make an impact, we're here to help you grow. Start your journey with us today