From intern to shaping future communities: Oscar’s story

Some people join a company for the projects. Others stay because of the people. For Oscar, it's been a combination of both.

After studying Landscape Architecture at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Oscar first joined AtkinsRéalis as an intern. What started as a short placement eventually turned into a full-time role, and more than two years later, he's still building his career with the team.

Looking back, it's the support from colleagues that stands out most. "Everyone in the team has been very supportive and willing to share their knowledge and experience with me," he says.

That willingness to help created an environment where learning felt natural, making it easier to develop new skills, ask questions, and grow in confidence.

Helping shape future places

As an Assistant Landscape Designer, Oscar works on large-scale infrastructure and development projects that will help shape the future of communities across Hong Kong.

What he enjoys most is the opportunity to contribute to projects where landscape and urban design play an important role in how people experience a place.

Unlike projects that are heavily constrained by existing conditions, some of the developments he works on provide opportunities to think creatively about public spaces, green infrastructure, and placemaking.

For Oscar, that's what makes the work exciting.

The opportunity to help influence how future communities connect, move, and interact gives purpose to the work he does every day.

From learning to taking ownership

Like many early-career professionals, Oscar began by supporting senior team members and learning how projects come together. Over time, that changed.

As his experience grew, so did his responsibilities. Tasks that once required guidance gradually became opportunities to work more independently and take greater ownership of project deliverables.

It's a progression that has helped him grow both technically and professionally while building confidence in his own abilities.

"When I first joined the company, I mainly played a supporting role," he says. "Over time, I have developed the skills and confidence to manage these tasks independently and take greater ownership of project deliverables."

A culture built on learning

One aspect of AtkinsRéalis that Oscar appreciates most is the openness of the team. No matter your role or level of experience, people are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and learn from one another. For Oscar, that mindset has made a significant difference to his development.

"Everyone is very supportive and willing to help, which makes it easier to learn, grow, and contribute confidently to projects."

He also credits the graduate programme with helping him build connections across the wider business, allowing him to learn from colleagues beyond his immediate team and develop a stronger sense of belonging within the organisation.

Growing through collaboration

What Oscar enjoys most about his team is its approach to growth and development. Mistakes aren't viewed as setbacks. Instead, they're treated as opportunities to learn and improve together.

"There is no excessive pressure when mistakes happen," he says. That supportive culture encourages people to keep developing, take on new challenges, and contribute ideas with confidence.

Combined with the company's growing use of AI and new technologies, it creates an environment where people are encouraged to explore new ways of working and continue learning.

Looking ahead

For Oscar, the past few years have been defined by growth, learning, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects alongside talented colleagues.

From joining as an intern to becoming a valued member of the landscape team, his experience reflects what can happen when people are given the support, encouragement, and opportunities to develop.

His advice to anyone considering a career at AtkinsRéalis is simple: build connections, stay curious, and take every opportunity to learn.

If you're looking for a place where you can grow your skills, work on projects that help shape communities, and be part of a supportive team, explore our current opportunities and discover where AtkinsRéalis could take you.