insights Why choose AtkinsRéalis as a career launchpad?
Hello, I’m Emily Hoyes, a Building Surveyor at AtkinsRéalis. My determination to pursue a career in construction and engineering was solidified after completing an industrial placement at AtkinsRéalis and obtaining a First Class Degree in Building Surveying.
If you’re wondering what to expect on a placement at AtkinsRéalis, I’m here to shed some light on my experience as a woman in construction. Read on to get a glimpse into the world of opportunities here!
Why should aspiring women in construction choose AtkinsRéalis?
Throughout my industrial placement year, I found inspiration in the dynamic and forward-thinking team at AtkinsRéalis, where I encountered key role models who continue to be a source of inspiration for me.
I aspired to join an organization that would nurture early-career professionals and present fresh challenges. Since my return to AtkinsRéalis, I can affirm that it has exceeded my expectations. It’s the top choice for accelerating your career, with diverse opportunities and a supportive culture.
My time here has constantly pushed me beyond my comfort zone in project work and various internal initiatives. My role within the company continues to challenge and fulfill me. I’m genuinely appreciative of the experience and support I receive from my colleagues and the broader Bristol team.
Delivering a better future
Prior to joining AtkinsRéalis, I had experience in overseeing smaller renovation projects. However, shortly after joining the company, I was given the responsibility of overseeing a substantial programme of sites for one of our key clients.
Whilst it was a demanding and somewhat daunting experience initially, it significantly contributed to my professional development. This period unveiled my enthusiasm for handling larger project volumes and playing a vital role in a delivery team
This experience imparted valuable lessons, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and effective communication amongst all stakeholders.
Currently, I am tasked with managing two construction programs for one of our key clients and supervising a team of colleagues who form the delivery team.
"I frequently oversee projects that focus on addressing non-compliance issues, with the ultimate goal of delivering a workspace that is both compliant and comfortable for the end user.” —Emily Hoyes, Building Surveyor
Learning never stops
One of the top benefits in my role as a building surveyor is that each day presents an opportunity for learning. During my time at AtkinsRéalis, I’ve actively participated in various training courses, including Asbestos Awareness training, access audit training, mandatory courses, and I am soon scheduled to attend a Principal Designer training course.
Additionally, I’ve recently joined the Inspire Programme, which, especially as a woman in the construction field, has equipped me with valuable insights and skills for personal and professional growth.
Guided by my mentors and with the unwavering support of my team and line manager, I’ve witnessed a substantial boost in my self-assurance and a significant enhancement in my capabilities as a building surveyor.
New building surveying technology
I find using resources such as Smartsheet and PowerBI incredibly helpful when managing large volumes of projects and data. We have recently introduced a new surveying technology, 'open space,' for site inspections.
This is really exciting and has been a useful visual aid to demonstrate site progress to our clients. However, I have got to admit, I had received a few funny looks when wearing the hard hat-mounted camera!
Beyond surveying
Most recently, I have been involved in a mentoring scheme through working with Envision. I found the experience incredibly fulfilling, witnessing a group of students grow in confidence and build integral teamwork skills, which they will no doubt utilize in the future.
While I joined the scheme to help develop the group of students, I found that I personally gained a huge amount from the experience, namely growing in confidence. I thoroughly enjoyed giving back to the community, so much so that I have volunteered for two cohorts with the scheme!
The next generation
‘Next Gen’ is a group of professionals, encompassing those at or below associate director level, who collaborate to enhance and champion social value initiatives, promote Continuous Professional Development (CPD) events, organize both internal and external networking gatherings, and serve as advocates for the emerging generation within our company.
In my role as the Building Surveying ‘Next Gen’ Representative for the West Region, I regularly attend the regional Building Surveyor update meetings. Traditionally, these regional meetings are predominantly attended by senior leadership. However, my involvement in NextGen has provided me with a platform to actively participate in these discussions and offer a fresh perspective.
I am now part of the Building Surveying Nation CPD Coordinators group, responsible for curating an exciting calendar of technical CPD events for our organization.
A supportive culture for women in construction
I’m truly thankful that my introduction to the construction industry has allowed me to cross paths with many determined and inspiring women.
At AtkinsRéalis we all work to create a culture that fosters true inclusivity and equality. This is evident in our Staff Networks, representing groups from women to LGBTQ+ and military to faith.
Studies often highlight that women tend to hesitate when opportunities don’t align perfectly with their qualifications, a tendency I’ve also noticed in myself, where I’ve often underestimated my own capabilities.
Particularly during my early years at university, I grappled with self-doubt and was set on a trajectory of achieving a low grade in my degree. However, everything changed during my placement year when I had the privilege of meeting several exceptional female role models.
They taught me a valuable lesson: the only limits that truly exist are the ones we impose on ourselves. The exposure to these incredible women ignited a newfound confidence in me, leading to accomplishments I had never thought possible, such as earning a first-class degree!
"I hope to one day be a leader at AtkinsRéalis as I know how integral role models can be, especially to those early in their careers.” –Emily Hoyes, Building Surveyor
Loving my hybrid work style
In recent years, my work routine has seen significant adjustments, with half of my working hours now being conducted remotely. Digital resources have become essential for my job and facilitating team communication. Nevertheless, I strongly believe that spending time with colleagues in the office is crucial for maintaining team morale and motivation!
My advice to aspiring building surveyors and women in construction
Embrace any opportunity that comes your way, and recognize the value of learning through real life experiences. Site visits are instrumental in your development and understanding.
Often, when reading into complex subjects and details, things can appear challenging to comprehend (trust me, I've experienced that too!). So, I encourage you to actively seek opportunities to observe these subjects in practice. And always remember, the more effort you invest, the greater the returns you'll receive!
Start your career with people who see you and want you to succeed. Explore placement opportunities at AtkinsRéalis. Discover more and browse live opportunities.
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
Preview
GeneralContent type
ProjectsPublish date
10/17/2024
Summary
Hello! My name is Matilda Davis, and I'm based in the AtkinsRéalis Bristol office. I joined AtkinsRéalis last September, straight after my A-Level studies, and I'm now in my first year of the Pro
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/14/2024
Summary
Welcome back to our Digital Her blog series! As Digital Her sponsors, we're committed to empowering young women like you to pursue careers in digital and tech. We aim to break down barriers an
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/14/2024
Summary
When you think of the construction industry, what word springs to mind? Innovation? Resilient perhaps? Despite facing economic challenges, the market perseveres, offering a promising landscape for as
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/02/2024
Summary
Unprecedented global events have caused delays and constraints on the construction of infrastructure projects worldwide. However, by being agile, managing expectations, and identifying viable soluti
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/01/2024
Summary
So, you’re looking into AtkinsRéalis early careers opportunities, are you? You might have come across a graduate scheme, placement, or apprenticeship and you’re keen to apply, but what happens if yo
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/30/2024
Summary
Hi, I'm Lesley, an Assistant Nuclear Safety & Reliability Engineer in the Nuclear Safety and Licensing team at Power New Build, Nuclear & Power. I joined AtkinsRéalis in 2022 on the graduate sch
Preview
EuropeContent type
ProjectsPublish date
09/30/2024
Summary
Hinkley Point C (HPC) is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK since the 1990s. Technically complex and the country’s largest infrastructure project – our talented people from
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/26/2024
Summary
Apprenticeships are a popular route into a plethora of disciplines, including engineering. In the 2022/23 academic year, 752,150 people were participating in an apprenticeship in England alone, com
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/18/2024
Summary
Meet Electromechanical Degree Apprentice James, who is based in our Bristol office. In his everyday role, he gets to explore the high-tech meeting of electrical and mechanical engineering, learn
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
08/23/2024
Summary
In the Engineering a Net Zero Energy System report, the Institution of Mechanical Engineering declared that ‘Net Zero is arguably the largest engineering project undertaken by humankind.’ A career i
Related jobs
Salary
£23,400 - £27,352 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Building Surveying Placement Scheme 2025
Market
Cities & development
Environment & geoscience
Project, programme & cost management
Water
Category
Placements
Location
Nottingham
Tunbridge Wells
London
Epsom
Bristol
Cardiff
Description
Eager to acquire practical experience in the exciting field of Building Surveying? Apply now!!
Reference
PL-175
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautam GajulaAuthor
Gautam GajulaSalary
£23,400 - £27,352 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Project Management Placement Scheme 2025
Market
Clean power
Project, programme & cost management
Transportation
Nuclear
Category
Placements
Location
Whitehaven
Manchester
London
Epsom
Bristol
Description
Shape your future in project management! Apply now for our 2025 Placement Scheme.
Reference
PL-188
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Management Consultancy Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Graduate
Location
London
Bristol
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Description
Are you ready to be part of a world-leading, inspiring and ambitious team? As a Management Consultancy Graduate you can get insight into a wide variety and explore where your skills and interests lie.
Reference
GR-200
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£23,400 - £27,352 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Quantity Surveying Placement Scheme 2025
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Placements
Location
Leeds
London
Description
Eager to acquire practical experience in the exciting field of Quantity Surveying? Apply now!
Reference
PL-189
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Information Management Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Clean power
Project, programme & cost management
Nuclear
Category
Graduate
Location
Whitehaven
Manchester
London
Description
Join us as a Graduate Information Manager and enjoy exposure to a wide variety of industries, clients and projects.
Reference
GR-198
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Asset Management Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Transportation
Category
Graduate
Location
Cambridge
Birmingham
Manchester
London
Description
Our Asset Management graduate programme has been designed to give you an insight into a wide variety of areas of work and the chance to explore where your own skills and interests lie.
Reference
GR-186
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location.
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Health and Safety Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Graduate
Location
Birmingham
Bristol
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Description
As a Health and Safety graduate, you'll enjoy variety, working on large and small projects with the opportunity to explore different career pathways including consulting and design.
Reference
GR-196
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Project Management Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Clean power
Project, programme & cost management
Transportation
Nuclear
Category
Graduate
Location
Cambridge
Oxford
Birmingham
Derby
Whitehaven
York
Leeds
Manchester
Southampton
Tunbridge Wells
Croydon
London
Epsom
Bristol
Aberdeen
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Cardiff
Description
Our project management graduate programme has been designed to give you an insight into a wide variety of areas of work and the chance to explore where your own skills and interests lie.
Reference
GR-205
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location.
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Project Controls, Risk and Planning Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Graduate
Location
Birmingham
London
Bristol
Description
Our team of project controls experts work on some of the most prestigious and technically exciting Infrastructure projects in the UK, influencing the way we live and shape the Built Environment.
Reference
GR-204
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
£30,500 - £33,500 depending on role and location
Location
Nationwide
Job Type
Full Time
Brand
Atkins
Career Area
Surveying Graduate Scheme 2024
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Graduate
Location
Cambridge
Oxford
Birmingham
Leeds
Manchester
Southampton
Tunbridge Wells
London
Epsom
Bristol
Belfast
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Description
As a Quantity Surveying graduate, you'll enjoy variety, working on large and small projects and experiencing different aspects including consulting, design or overseeing construction.
Reference
GR-218
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Integrity
We do the right thing, no matter what, and are accountable for our actions.