How I'm building a sustainable energy career

I’m Shengke. Within AtkinsRéalis’ Complex Projects team, I lead our strategic work on Small Modular Reactors, one of the most pivotal technologies for the UK’s long term energy resilience and net zero ambitions.

My career is driven by a conviction that sustainable energy requires more than technical excellence—it requires alignment across policy, industry, innovation and delivery. That’s why I focus on building the right partnerships, shaping the right programmes and ensuring we bring the right expertise to the table at the right time.

I’m currently seconded into a client leadership role, guiding reactor design for the UK’s SMR programme. This puts me at the centre of a national strategic effort: defining how nuclear energy can underpin digital growth, strengthen energy security and support emerging sectors such as AI and industrial decarbonization clusters.

As a Chartered Engineer with a PhD, MBA, and Fellowships with both the IET and the Nuclear Institute, I bring together technical depth, systems thinking, and business insight. This enables me to operate across boundaries—engineering design, commercial strategy, regulatory engagement, supply chain mobilisation and client advisory.

Every day, I help turn strategic intent into executable programmes—making sure ambition translates into delivery and long term value. Whether it's enabling the next generation of low carbon infrastructure or shaping how nuclear supports the UK’s evolving energy compute economy, I’m committed to building a cleaner, more resilient, and more competitive energy system.

Outside work, I'm also a keen cyclist (I used AtkinsRéalis' Cycle to Work scheme to buy my bike) and love traveling. While I often work from the office to spark collaboration and creativity, I make the most of our flexible working culture by getting out on my bike and exploring new places whenever I can.

Why I love working in the energy sector?

The energy sector energises me – quite literally! It is where some of today's biggest global challenges meet bold, practical solutions. From decarbonization to ensuring secure, sustainable energy systems are in place, I get to apply my technical knowledge where it counts most. Every project we deliver brings us closer to a net‑zero world and helps engineer a more sustainable future for our planet and future generations.

How AtkinsRéalis supports growth in sustainable energy careers?

AtkinsRéalis is more than a workplace – it truly is a launchpad for growth. What makes it special is the combination of purpose, scale, and a culture that encourages people to stretch themselves. I’ve always valued opportunities for personal and professional development, and here I’m actively encouraged to challenge convention, embrace complexity, and take ownership of the next wave of engineering innovation.

We’re working at the forefront of sustainable energy – from nuclear new build and SMRs to CCUS, offshore wind, power grid and advanced digital engineering. These are some of the most demanding and impactful engineering challenges of our generation, and we approach them with both precision and ambition.

A good example is our recent collaboration with Nvidia. The rapid rise of AI is creating unprecedented energy demand and an urgent need for resilient, low carbon power. Together with Nvidia, we’re exploring how advanced digital twins and nuclear technology can support the future energy compute ecosystem. It’s a powerful illustration of how our engineers and project teams are not only delivering infrastructure, but shaping the architecture of the next industrial transformation.

AtkinsRéalis creates an environment where people can grow their expertise, move across sectors, and contribute to projects that will define the future of sustainable energy. Whether you’re a graduate, mid career, or an experienced leader, the opportunities are genuinely diverse and backed by a culture that invests in its people.

What sets AtkinsRéalis apart from other employers is the culture of collaboration that runs through everything we do. We're a global company, but we work like one team. No matter where you sit in the business, people are friendly, open, and keen to share ideas and solve problems together. Add to that our strong reputation, city‑centre offices, and global reach – you've got a place where talent thrives, and impact multiplies.

How our global talent network powers net zero delivery?

At AtkinsRéalis, I'm part of a fantastic organization of 40,000 talented people. I've had the opportunity to collaborate with experts across sectors and geographies. That depth of expertise means our clients trust our solutions and often prefer working with us. This powerful network of talent allows us to push boundaries, deliver excellence, and keep learning every step of the way.

How AtkinsRéalis invests in my professional development?

AtkinsRéalis has supported my professional development in so many ways – from funding professional memberships to enabling me to speak at global conferences and publish thought leadership. Whether you are developing technical skills or expanding your industry presence, the opportunities are there – and the company is behind you all the way.

What #MakeItBrilliant means in my energy career?

To me, #MakeItBrilliant means delivering work that matters. I get to lead and contribute to some of the energy world's most complex and cutting‑edge projects. From designing FOAK Nuclear SMR to helping decarbonise large industrial clusters through carbon capture, I am part of something bigger than myself.

That sense of purpose – combined with world‑class teams and inspiring challenges – is why I show up every day excited about what we are building.

Why now is the time to join the energy sector?

If you love solving complex problems, thrive in a fast‑moving environment, and want to make a real‑world impact – this is your moment. The energy sector is transforming rapidly, creating exciting opportunities for those who want to lead the change.

Whether your ambition is rooted in sustainability, engineering, or innovation, there is a place for you in our sector. And with experience here in the UK, you'll find doors opening around the globe. The world needs clean energy and people like you to help deliver it.