Insights from a Civil EIT at AtkinsRéalis

Get early career insights from Candy, who paved her way to success by starting as a civil engineer-in-training at AtkinsRéalis.

When I joined AtkinsRéalis as a Civil Engineer-in-Training (EIT) on the Roads and Highways team, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect, but I was eager to learn. Looking back today, I can honestly say that this first permanent role in my field has helped kickstart my civil engineering career and boosted my confidence as a professional. Growth, first-hand experience, and inspiring colleagues made every day a new opportunity to build on my skills.

From China to Canada to working at AtkinsRéalis: When diversity fuels curiosity

I was born and raised in China and moved to Canada with my family when I was in elementary school. This early experience shaped how I approach learning and adapting, skills I still rely on to this day. After studying civil engineering, I entered the professional world through AtkinsRéalis, which offers a rich and diverse environment. This was my first full-time industry position, and it has been a rewarding way to launch my engineering career. Outside of work, I love to travel and experience different cultures—something that also helps me bring an open mind and fresh perspective to my work.

What does a civil EIT do? All that matters!

A typical workday as an EIT involves a variety of responsibilities, which I truly enjoyed. A civil engineer-in-training at AtkinsRéalis supports, coordinates, and develops geometric designs for various road, highway, and site grading projects, while assisting in the preparation of preliminary and detailed design drawings and multidisciplinary reports. The role also includes:

• Creating 3D digital models of proposed designs using Civil3D.
• Developing cost estimates based on quantity take-offs and unit prices.
• Contributing to the preparation of project tender documents.
• Helping draft project documentation such as design briefs, design criteria, engineering reports, drawings, and specifications to summarize the design approach and project outcomes.
• Going to a project site and experiencing construction and inspections.

No matter what, I know that my work on any given day matters, and every project helps build technical skills, paving the way to meet any challenges the future might bring.

Last but not least, as a civil EIT, you work alongside experienced senior engineers, gaining valuable experience.

Classroom to engineer-in-training transition: Real-world problem-solving

Even with a solid academic foundation, transitioning into the real world of civil engineering revealed some gaps, mainly in communication and collaboration. In school, most of your work is individual or done with peers who learn the same things. In the workplace, you collaborate with experts from different disciplines, each with their own perspective and priorities. A small decision can have a ripple effect through a project, impacting multiple teams. That’s why clear, early, and frequent communication is so important.

I’ve learned that it’s essential to speak up when changes occur or when you foresee a challenge. It’s something I’m still improving, but I now see how critical it is—not just to explain your own work, but to understand others’ perspectives and timelines as well. Real-world problem-solving is definitely a team effort.

The value of starting an engineering career at AtkinsRéalis

If you’re a recent graduate looking for the right place to start your career, here’s my advice: find a company that enables you to thrive, not just as an engineer, but as a professional and a person. That’s exactly what I found at AtkinsRéalis.

I joined early career programs like the Odyssey program, which helped me build a professional network and boost my confidence right from the start. The Emerging Professionals Network (EPN) has been another great resource. It connects you with other early-career professionals, facilitates training sessions, and even helps you learn from senior leaders in a casual setting. And then there’s Toastmasters, a great way to work on public speaking, confidence, and leadership, all in a very encouraging environment.

These programs aren’t just “nice to have”—they’ve significantly boosted my confidence and sense of belonging in the engineering community. They’ve helped me speak up more, ask better questions, and keep learning—skills that extend beyond any single project. I hope you’ll find the same support as you start your civil engineering career and make the most of it.

Thinking of launching your engineering career?

AtkinsRéalis is a great place to start. You’ll get meaningful project experience, grow your skills every day, and feel supported by a community that’s rooting for your success.

Explore early career opportunities and apply today.