“Step into the discomfort of being seen”: Mamta on saying yes, earning two charterships in a year, and why visibility isn’t self-promotion

Mamta is a Senior Principal Engineer based in the Mumbai office. She’s an electrical engineer by profession, she leads multiple projects, provides bid support for work around the globe, and mentors junior engineers across the team.

But ask her what people might be surprised to learn about her outside of work, and the answer has nothing to do with engineering and everything to do with it.

“I’m Vice President of the Engineers Without Borders Mumbai local chapter committee,” she says. “I also serve as a member of the IET Mumbai local chapter. And I’m an avid reader and a good cook.”

The Australian project that changed everything

Mamta’s career at AtkinsRéalis has spanned continents and disciplines. She began as a Metal and Mining Electrical Lead in Canada team, building a strong technical foundation and gaining early leadership experience.

One opportunity that really stood out for Mamta was getting the chance to work on an Australian project for the first time. It was a region she had never worked in before, so stepping into that space was both exciting and challenging.

“That experience opened up a whole new way of looking at engineering practices, standards, and collaboration styles,” she says. “It pushed me to adapt quickly and gave me a breakthrough into new demographic area.”

From there, she moved into global Transmission and Distribution projects, strengthening her expertise across multiple regions. She took on the role of Women’s Business Network, Mumbai Network Lead, then Electrical Lead for the Mumbai office. Her work now spans energy, water, mining, and Transmission and Distribution sectors, reviewing technical documents, ensuring compliance, coordinating across teams, and currently focusing on a large water utilities framework.

“The moments I remember most are the simple ones,” she says. “Helping someone new find their footing, solving problems together, and seeing people grow. Those experiences stay with me more than any title or milestone.”

Two charterships in one year

Last year, Mamta achieved something remarkable: she earned her Chartered status from Engineers Australia and her P.Eng licence from EGBC Canada in the same year.

“The support from the organisation has been a huge motivator,” she says. “Whether it was during my Chartered application or my P.Eng licensing, I never felt like I was navigating things alone. Having leadership and colleagues who encourage you and trust your abilities builds a sense of confidence.”

It’s a thread that runs through everything she says about working at AtkinsRéalis, the combination of trust, flexibility, and practical support.

“Having the freedom to manage my schedule and organise my work in a way that fits how I operate allows me to stay focused and deliver consistently. That flexibility removes a lot of unnecessary pressure and creates space for real productivity.”

Five countries, one way of working 

Working across USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and India has shaped how Mamta thinks and solves problems.

“Every project brings a new perspective, and that constant exchange keeps me learning and pushes me to stretch my capabilities. For me, collaboration isn’t just teamwork, it’s one of the reasons I feel connected to the work.”

She’s equally clear about what keeps her grounded: “An environment where people respect each other, share knowledge openly, and genuinely want you to grow. When you feel valued and trusted, you naturally bring your best self to the work.”

“Don’t hide in the comfort of being capable”

Mamta’s advice for women building their careers is direct and unapologetic.

“Don’t hide in the comfort of being capable, step into the discomfort of being seen.”

“Too often, women wait to be 100% ready before putting their hands up, while opportunities quietly pass by. Take the lead even if it scares you a little. Speak in the room, take ownership of the work, show your expertise without downplaying it.”

“Visibility is not self-promotion, it’s part of leadership. And remember, you’re not stepping forward alone. You’re stepping into a culture that actually wants you to rise. Use that. Own your space. You’ve earned it.”

If you’re looking for a place where your voice matters, your growth is championed, and your ambition has room to rise, discover your next opportunity with AtkinsRéalis. Your moment to step forward starts here.