Shaping the future of mobility: My career as a project manager

I’m Réjean Perrault, a civil engineer and project manager at AtkinsRéalis, currently working on one of the most exciting infrastructure projects in Québec: the Réseau express métropolitain (REM). Within the engineering partnership (EJV), I serve as the Construction Support Services and Delivery Manager for infrastructure and stations. It’s a complex and challenging role, but one that is supported by my nearly 20 years of experience in aeronautics, technology, and transportation infrastructure.

From technician to civil engineer to project manager and team leader

My career began far from rail and urban mobility. I initially trained and worked as an aircraft structure technician in Alberta and Québec, Canada. This field taught me precision, discipline, and the importance of safety. From there, I transitioned into roles in accounting and project management within the technology sector, honing skills in organization and problem-solving.

I joined AtkinsRéalis, drawn by the opportunity to contribute to the REM, a transformative project that is revolutionizing mobility in Québec. Over the years, I’ve served as an engineering work package manager and later as segment director, overseeing design and delivery for multiple branches of the network. These roles helped me develop, both as an engineer and a leader, tackling complex challenges while managing multidisciplinary teams.

AtkinsRéalis: Career growth with a positive impact

Considering my career objectives, I sought more than just a job. I wanted to join a company whose values aligned with my own: collaboration, respect, and making a positive impact. AtkinsRéalis stood out for its culture of teamwork and for providing an environment that promotes continuous learning and professional growth. I wanted to feel that my work mattered—that the hours spent planning, coordinating, and problem-solving would ultimately enhance people’s lives. I found a sense of purpose at AtkinsRéalis.

Excelling at complex projects through teamwork

What I appreciate most at AktinsRéalis are the people. Collaborating with colleagues who share the same values makes a huge difference. I thrive on teamwork, on finding solutions together, and on the diversity of experiences that come with a project as complex as the REM. Every day is different, and every day brings an opportunity to learn something new about design, construction, or operations.

A typical day as a civil engineering project manager

Not typical is typical when managing civil engineering projects! Much of my work revolves around meetings that ensure the project moves forward smoothly.

• Internal meetings focus on progress, priorities, schedules, risks, processes, and budgets.
• With the technical team, we work on interdisciplinary coordination, validating technical solutions, resolving issues, and analyzing proposed changes.
• With the management team, discussions revolve around design progress, construction updates, and risk management.

I also regularly meet with the client to address technical issues, priorities, and project risks. Preparing clear, professional presentations for client managers is another key part of my responsibilities, ensuring we communicate effectively at every stage.

My proudest career achievement: Contributing to the game-changing REM project

Without hesitation, my proudest achievement is the progress I've made within the REM project. This is a project of unprecedented scale for Québec, one that is literally transforming how people move around the region.

Contributing to its success has challenged me technically and organizationally. I’ve managed major risks, solved problems under pressure, and led multidisciplinary teams. But more than that, I’ve had the privilege of playing a part in delivering something that will benefit millions of people for decades to come. That sense of impact is deeply rewarding.

Advice for future civil engineering project managers

To jumpstart your project management career, begin by mastering the fundamentals of your field. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you’re outside your comfort zone. Build a solid project management foundation, the PMI methodologies are excellent tools for that.

In civil engineering project management, strong communication is vital: be clear, precise, and structured when both writing and speaking.

Learning the technical language will enhance your ability to explain complex issues. Don’t forget to document your work, and, above all, stay curious and keep learning—you’ll never stop growing.

The key to success in project management: Interpersonal skills

People are often surprised at how much project management depends on interpersonal skills. As project manager, I spend more time managing people, resolving conflicts, motivating teams, and communicating with the client than analyzing technical specifications. The technical side matters, but ultimately this job is about getting the best out of people and bringing them together to deliver a common goal.

Pursuing my civil engineering career journey

My journey has taken me from aircraft hangars to one of Canada’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. Along the way, I’ve grown as a leader, learned to manage complexity, and discovered the impact that good project management can have on society.

AtkinsRéalis has given me the chance to work on meaningful projects with colleagues who share my values in an environment that supports both professional and personal growth. That’s why I’m proud to be part of this team—and why I look forward to what’s next in my civil engineering career journey.

Are you passionate about project management and civil engineering? Belong to a team that’s shaping the future of mobility. Take a look at our latest civil engineering and project management job openings.