Building careers, strengthening communities: Indigenous voices at AtkinsRéalis

Different paths, shared purpose 

They arrived at AtkinsRéalis from different career backgrounds. One spent more than 30 years serving her Nation and community. The other built a career focused on creating opportunities for Indigenous talent. 

Yet for Crystal, Indigenous Relations Manager, and Nikki, Indigenous Talent Advisor, their experiences at AtkinsRéalis are connected by common themes: belonging, career growth, meaningful relationships and the opportunity to make an impact.

As a proud member of Tsuut'ina Nation in Treaty 7 territory, Crystal spent more than 30 years working within her Nation and serving her community. Her career began in community and eventually led to senior leadership roles. She wanted to understand how AtkinsRéalis’s ReconciliACTION Plan was being translated into the real world.  

For Nikki, a member of Sucker Creek First Nation on Treaty 8 territory in Alberta, the opportunity was equally compelling, but through a different lens. She joined AtkinsRéalis after seeing a chance to help create pathways for Indigenous talent and support meaningful employment opportunities.  

What does belonging really mean? 

Throughout their careers, both women have learned that inclusion and belonging are not the same thing. For them, inclusion means being invited into the conversation, while belonging means knowing your voice matters once you are there. It’s knowing that their perspectives as Indigenous women are valued, not simply acknowledged.  

And sometimes belonging shows up in very simple moments. 

One experience that stayed with Crystal happened shortly after she joined AtkinsRéalis. She was attending a meeting led by Stéphanie Vaillancourt, President, Canada. What stood out was watching Stéphanie interact with the Elders who attended. 

“Stéphanie didn't simply acknowledge them and move on. She took the time to listen, ask questions, and engage with genuine respect and humility. As someone who has spent much of my career working with Indigenous communities, those moments matter. It told me that the commitment to reconciliation wasn't just something written in a plan. It was reflected in how people chose to show up and build relationships,” recalls Crystal. 

Nikki experienced something similar when she was invited to present alongside her Talent Acquisition colleagues.  

“It wasn't just about sharing information related to Indigenous recruitment. I was recognized as a member of the broader team with expertise to offer. It showed me that inclusion isn't about being set apart; it's about being included as a valued contributor while still bringing your unique perspective.” 

Learning goes both ways 

One theme that consistently emerges in both Crystal and Nikki's experiences is the willingness of colleagues to learn from one another. 

A significant part of Nikki's role involves discussing Indigenous history, cultural awareness and barriers Indigenous Peoples may experience in the workplace. Through that work, she has learned that meaningful collaboration often begins with mutual respect rather than shared experiences. 

One example is the relationship she has built with her leader, Frances. 

Nikki says, "On paper, we come from very different worlds. But what I've learned is that effective collaboration isn't about having similar experiences. It's about mutual respect, trust and a willingness to learn from one another. Frances has always encouraged me to bring my perspective to discussions, and that has helped me feel both valued and supported in my role.” 

Building relationships and partnerships 

For both women, one of the most rewarding aspects of their work is helping create opportunities for others. Crystal has seen the impact that meaningful Indigenous engagement can have on projects. 

"When Indigenous voices are included early, projects are stronger. Relationships are stronger. Outcomes are better,” she says.  

Nikki experiences that same sense of impact through talent attraction and outreach. "Every time I connect with a student, a recent graduate, or an experienced professional and help them see a future for themselves here, it feels like I'm truly making a difference." 

As Crystal explains, every Nation is unique, with its own history, priorities and ways of doing things. Taking the time to listen first is critically important. 

Those stronger relationships lead to better outcomes. Whether working with Indigenous communities, clients or colleagues, understanding different perspectives helps us make better decisions and build more meaningful partnerships. 

The power of representation 

Representation is incredibly important. Seeing Indigenous employees in different roles across the organization helps people envision what might be possible for themselves. Indigenous employees need opportunities to contribute beyond positions that are specifically labelled “Indigenous.”  

“We are engineers, scientists, project managers, technical specialists, executives, community leaders and professionals with experience that can contribute throughout the business,” says Nikki.  

Crystal believes representation benefits both candidates and organizations.  

“Indigenous talent brings valuable skills, whether those come from technical expertise, community leadership, cultural knowledge, governance experience, or lived experience,” she says. 

Advice for future Indigenous candidates 

When asked what advice they would give Indigenous candidates considering AtkinsRéalis, both women share the same message: be confident in what you bring to the table. 

Your experiences matter. Your perspective matters. Stay curious, ask questions, build relationships and don't be afraid to bring your authentic self to work. 

Looking ahead 

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity to put all these lessons into practice. And it's also a reminder that reconciliation is an ongoing journey. Progress happens through relationships, conversations, and action. 

Join us 

At AtkinsRéalis, we're committed to creating an environment where Indigenous employees can make a meaningful impact. If you're looking to build a rewarding career and be part of a workplace that values strength in diversity, we encourage you to explore our current opportunities. 

Discover how your unique experiences and talents can help shape the future with AtkinsRéalis.