Business area: Transportation, Consultancy
Years into GDP: 3
University and degree: BSc Geography (Human) and Planning - Cardiff University; MSc Transport Planning – University of Leeds

What projects have you worked on during the graduate development programme?

I have been lucky enough to work on the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon Improvement scheme; a £1.5 billion project of various elements including widening of the A1, a new section of bypass and improvements to the road network in Huntingdon Town Centre.

I have worked within the Traffic Modelling discipline to understand the impact the improvements will have on traffic movements in the area, assisting with designing the junction layouts and advising on the performance of the traffic models. I have gained much experience from this project, and have had the opportunity to interact with the client and multiple stakeholders as well as designers from other companies who are working with Atkins to produce the deliverables for the project.

What didn’t you know, but wish you had known when applying and joining Atkins?

I guess just how supportive staff are of your development and that everyone wants you to succeed – I have gained so much by just asking (for example for experience in different areas), but there are times where I wish I had asked sooner as colleagues will always try and find a way to help you achieve your goals.

What skills have you developed since being at Atkins?

My communication skills and confidence have soared since being at Atkins; you really do get thrown in at the deep end and communicating with clients/suppliers has become a regular occurrence. I’ve also learned to think outside of the box in terms of solutions to problems that we must overcome; innovative thinking really is at the centre of everything we do!

What do you do outside of the graduate development programme?

As mentioned above, I enjoy the voluntary activities that I take part in, and I’m a huge fan of general outdoor activities and fitness challenges! I’ve just completed a Tough Mudder and earlier in the summer took part in the Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge with my colleagues.

What’s the culture of Atkins like?

It’s extremely friendly and diverse; there is always someone to help you or who can point you in the direction of the information you need, which I think is extremely valuable, especially in such a large company. Everyone is supportive of each other, in both work and personal terms.