From internship to impact: Punith’s career journey at AtkinsRéalis

Starting a career can feel like stepping into a new world. One day you’re a student surrounded by books and lectures, and the next, you’re in meetings, learning to make decisions that matter. For Punith, joining Atkins (now AtkinsRéalis) straight out of college was that leap from the classroom to a career full of learning, support, and growth.

Read his story in his own words.

Taking the first step

I joined AtkinsRéalis as an intern during my MBA, stepping from classrooms into boardrooms — an exciting yet overwhelming shift. During my internship, I learned how a global organization works and experienced a culture built on trust and collaboration. Leaders like Puru made a lasting impact through their warmth and guidance, helping me feel confident and valued from the start. Even after receiving multiple offers after graduation, I chose to continue my journey with AtkinsRéalis a place where I could learn, grow, and build a truly meaningful career.

Growth through every challenge

My time at AtkinsRéalis has shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I’ve developed interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a deep understanding of talent acquisition and people management. Coming from an engineering background, entering recruitment was a whole new journey—but every challenge helped me grow.

When I moved to the Middle East recruitment team, it meant learning a new market and new ways of working. It wasn’t easy, but with the right mentors and teammates, every day became an opportunity to get better.

People who made the difference

The people around me have been the biggest source of motivation. Sagar guided me as a mentor, Paresh taught me lessons that went beyond work, and colleagues like Sameera and Sahana became my support system. AtkinsRéalis is full of people who encourage you to step up, try new things, and become better than you were yesterday.

Moments of pride

Closing the highest number of positions in the Middle East region for two consecutive years has been a proud milestone. I’ve also hosted several corporate events - one of them at just five minutes’ notice. A teammate told me, “It’s all our people here, you’ve got this.” That small sentence gave me the confidence to take the stage and own the moment.

Looking ahead

I come from a joint South Indian family with an Army background, where discipline and learning go hand in hand. Outside work, I enjoy reading and volunteering with NGOs, which keeps me grounded and connected to what truly matters.

As I begin a new chapter with the India Recruitment team, I carry forward everything I’ve learned here - resilience, curiosity, and the belief that growth comes when you step outside your comfort zone.

At AtkinsRéalis, we believe in empowering people to grow, explore, and build careers without boundaries. Punith’s story reflects how opportunity, mentorship, and a culture of support can turn a first job into a lifelong journey of growth.

If you’re ready to begin your own story, explore opportunities with us today.