From a graduate engineer to an inclusion champion: Nancy’s growth story at AtkinsRéalis.

For many early-career professionals, the ideal workplace is one that offers more than just a job. It provides opportunities to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact. For Nancy Shukla, Engineer I in the Drainage team, AtkinsRéalis has been exactly that. 

After completing her master's in water resources engineering from NIT Jaipur, Nancy joined AtkinsRéalis as a Graduate Engineer. What began as her first professional role has evolved into a journey marked by technical growth, leadership opportunities, recognition, and a commitment to fostering inclusion.

Laying the foundations for growth 

Starting her career at AtkinsRéalis gave Nancy the opportunity to work on impactful projects while learning from experienced professionals. From the outset, she was entrusted with responsibilities that strengthened her technical capabilities and expanded her understanding of engineering delivery. 

Working across a variety of projects helped her build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. 

"Every project has helped me learn something new, whether it's enhancing technical expertise, becoming more detail-oriented, or learning how to navigate challenges effectively."

Opportunities that accelerate development 

A key factor in Nancy's growth has been the organization's commitment to employee development. 

Since joining, she has contributed to several projects, including railway drainage and multidisciplinary infrastructure programmes such as Darlington Station Enhancement and London Tram Renewals. Alongside project work, she has been given opportunities to lead Inter-Disciplinary Coordination (IDC) meetings, deliver training sessions for new joiners, participate in recruitment initiatives, and work with a UK mentor to support her ICE Chartership journey. 

One particularly memorable experience was representing AtkinsRéalis on a campus recruitment panel at Delhi Technological University. As a Graduate Engineer, the opportunity provided valuable exposure to the organizational and management aspects of the business while reinforcing the trust the company places in its people. 

These experiences have strengthened not only her technical expertise but also her communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

A culture that empowers

When asked what she values most about AtkinsRéalis, Nancy highlights the culture of empowerment. 

She appreciates the freedom to share ideas, express career aspirations, and pursue opportunities that align with her professional goals. The organisation's collaborative and growth-oriented environment encourages employees to take ownership of their development while receiving the support needed to succeed. 

This people-first approach has enabled Nancy to continuously challenge herself, learn new skills, and expand her career horizons.

Recognition that makes a difference

Throughout her journey, Nancy's contributions have been recognised through multiple achievements, including two Spot Awards, several commendations, and positive feedback from leadership and clients. 

Among her proudest moments was being recognised by CEO Bharat Gala for her contributions to the Everyone Belongs initiative and her efforts to help create a more inclusive workplace. 

For Nancy, this recognition reinforced the belief that employees can make a meaningful impact beyond their immediate roles and contribute to positive change across the organisation. 

Championing Inclusion through the ABLE Network

Beyond her role as an engineer, Nancy actively champions inclusion as the ABLE Network Lead for the Noida office.

From organising neurodiversity and sign language workshops to launching "Echoes of Abilities," a podcast spotlighting colleagues with physical disabilities, she has helped create meaningful conversations around accessibility, awareness, and belonging.

Her efforts reflect AtkinsRéalis' commitment to empowering employees to drive positive change and foster a more inclusive workplace.

Collaboration and wellbeing at the core

For Nancy, one of the most rewarding aspects of working at AtkinsRéalis is the strong sense of teamwork. The friendships, support, and camaraderie within her team have made her professional journey both enjoyable and fulfilling. 

Knowledge-sharing sessions, CPD programmes, chartership training, town halls, and regular team interactions help employees stay connected, collaborate effectively, and learn from one another. 

Equally important is the organisation's focus on employee wellbeing. Flexible and hybrid ways of working, supportive leaders, and an open culture of communication enable employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance while performing at their best.

Looking ahead 

As she continues her AtkinsRéalis journey, Nancy hopes to grow into a leadership role while deepening her technical expertise and continuing to make a positive impact. 

Her advice to those looking to build a successful career is simple: 

"Be vocal and proactive. Share your ideas, express your aspirations, ask questions, and never stop learning." 

Build your future with AtkinsRéalis

Nancy's story demonstrates how the right opportunities, supportive leadership, and an inclusive culture can help individuals thrive. Whether it's delivering impactful projects, developing new skills, or driving meaningful change, AtkinsRéalis provides an environment where people are empowered to grow and succeed. 

Ready to start your own growth story? Join AtkinsRéalis and discover where your career can take you.