Engineering impact starts below the surface

For Preethi, curiosity about engineering began with a simple question: What holds everything up? Today, as a Geotechnical Design Manager at AtkinsRéalis, that question still guides her work on infrastructure people depend on every day, often without ever seeing the ground conditions that make it possible.

For International Women in Engineering Day, Preethi’s story highlights a powerful truth: some of engineering’s most meaningful impact begins out of sight. “Engineering, for me, is about turning complex challenges into practical solutions that make a real difference, while continuously learning and improving along the way.”

Why ground engineering carries such weight

As part of AtkinsRéalis’ Ground Engineering & Tunnelling (GE&T) team in Bengaluru, she leads, reviews and contributes to geotechnical design and analysis across infrastructure, rail and water projects.

It is work that carries real responsibility. Ground conditions influence a project’s safety, performance, cost and long-term resilience. That is why geotechnical engineering takes more than technical knowledge. It calls for judgement, clear thinking and the ability to make sound decisions even when the ground does not behave exactly as expected.

Preethi puts it simply: “One thing people don’t realise about being an engineer is how much judgement, creativity, and continuous learning it involves beyond just calculations and design.”

Solving what others do not always see

Much of the attention in engineering goes to what rises above ground. Yet foundations, soil behaviour and underground conditions often decide whether a project can be delivered safely, efficiently and with confidence. Early design thinking is critical.

Right now, Preethi focuses on projects where safe and practical ground engineering solutions help teams manage risk early. That early thinking improves design performance, supports cost efficiency, and helps projects move forward with greater confidence.

This is also where the role becomes intellectually rewarding. Engineers do not simply apply standard answers. They test ideas, weigh options and respond to real-world conditions that rarely fit a perfect model.

Work that supports communities for the long term

For Preethi, the purpose behind the work is clear. Safe, resilient infrastructure supports people, services and communities. Better engineering decisions reduce risk and create long-term value.

“The best part of my job is the opportunity to solve ground engineering challenges and see designs come to life in real-world projects, knowing they contribute to safe and sustainable infrastructure” she says.

For engineers considering their next step, that sense of purpose matters. You want your work to count. You want to see how your thinking contributes to something larger.

A place to grow alongside others

Preethi’s own journey reflects that same sense of progress. Since joining AtkinsRéalis, she has built experience across a wide range of infrastructure, Rail and Water projects, taken on greater design responsibility and collaborated with experienced colleagues and multidisciplinary teams.

She says, “It’s a great place to grow, learn, and take on meaningful challenges.”

She is also excited about what comes next. “I’m particularly excited about how digital tools and innovative geotechnical approaches are evolving, enabling us to deliver more efficient and sustainable solutions.”

For engineers who want to deepen their expertise and see their work make a tangible difference, Preethi’s story shows what is possible. Explore job opportunities with AtkinsRéalis.