Harikrishnan's journey: Bold choices and big impact at AtkinsRéalis

From taking bold early-career decisions to scaling innovative digital solutions across the globe, Harikrishnan is shaping the future of engineering and design at AtkinsRéalis. With a unique blend of technical insight and strategic thinking, he's built a career rooted in curiosity, transformation, and purposeful leadership.

Here's his journey—in his own words.

From engineering to the road not taken

I started with a degree in Civil Engineering, followed by a master's in construction management. While many of my peers followed the conventional path, I took a leap of faith by joining a startup in a digital role. Looking back, that moment changed everything.

At the time, it felt like stepping off the well-paved road. But watching the company grow from 15 people to over 300 showed me the impact digital thinking could have. I wasn't just learning tools—I was learning how to scale operations, mentor teams, and drive innovation from the inside out.

Scaling my impact at AtkinsRéalis

Joining AtkinsRéalis was a turning point. Suddenly, I was applying what I had learned in a startup to a global scale—30,000+ colleagues, world-class projects, and endless possibilities.

As part of the Digital Design Services (DDS) team, I've helped shape and deliver a range of digital capabilities—5D, Design Data Analytics, Information Management, 4D, 6D, Design Automation, and more. 

One of my proudest moments? Building our Data Driven information management service from the ground up—what started as an idea became a full-scale, value-driven capability. 

To stay ahead in this ever-evolving space, I've continued to upskill myself—recently earning the BIM Project Information and Asset Information Practitioner certifications from BSI Training Academy—ensuring we bring global best practices into our digital delivery approach.

Learning, leading, and being heard

AtkinsRéalis gave me a platform to grow—not just as an engineer but as a thought leader. In 2023, I co-presented at Autodesk University, and I've been nominated again for 2025. These experiences sharpened my storytelling, broadened my perspective, and showed me the value of sharing our journey with the world.

What stands out most is the culture here. I've had the chance to work with senior global leaders, influence digital strategy, and implement automation that has unlocked real efficiencies. It's a place where good ideas are heard and great ones are nurtured.

People behind my purpose

I wouldn't be here without my family my wife, son, and mother. From taking out an education loan to working through intense schedules, they've supported me at every turn.

At AtkinsRéalis, my mentors and peers have been equally instrumental. I'm especially grateful to Bharat Gala, our India CEO, whose vision and clarity continue to inspire. I also co-founded an ED&I initiative called DARE (Diversity Across Regions & Ethnicities), and it's been humbling to see it win the India CEO Excellence Award—twice.

The milestones that mattered

One moment that truly stands out was visiting six of our U.S. offices and presenting at a major industry event. It reinforced how far I've come—from an engineer figuring things out, to a leader driving change on a global stage.

And now, as a Capability Lead, I focus on scalable digital workflows across the UK, US, and Middle East—blending BIM, automation, and data-driven delivery.

Life outside the job

Outside work, I find balance in sport and family. I'm a big fan of badminton, volleyball, and, of course, the Chennai Super Kings. Nature is my go-to reset button, and I love treks, and beaches. 

My son, Gautham, keeps me on my toes and fills my days with laughter, learning, and paper planes—yes, I enjoy origami too.

Words that drive me

If I had to sum it all up in one thought, it would be this:

You are responsible for your career.

Every opportunity I've had—from switching paths to creating new services—came from believing in what I had to offer and being empowered to act on it.

That's what I value most at AtkinsRéalis. It's a place where you're trusted to lead, encouraged to explore, and supported to grow not just professionally, but personally too.

At AtkinsRéalis, we empower people to lead, innovate, and grow just like Harikrishnan. If you're ready to take the road less traveled and make your mark on the future of engineering and design, explore opportunities with us.