Insights A graduate's guide to embracing opportunities
Meet graduate consultant Lottie Hayman. Fresh from her Chemistry degree, Lottie joined AtkinsRéalis and our Junior Consultant Development Programme (JCDP). She’s blending her passion for science with our diverse opportunities, and here she shares her experiences and insights.
What made me choose consultancy with AtkinsRéalis?
As I write this, I'm hot desking as part of the Aerospace, Defence, Security & Technology (ADS&T) team. I'm based in Bristol and work as a Programme Manager. My academic background is a BSc and MRes in Chemistry from the University of Nottingham. I loved many aspects of my degree and continue to be passionate about Chemistry. My Master's Course helped me realize that consultancy was a better fit for me than laboratory work, and the variety of projects and opportunities at AtkinsRéalis attracted me.
My first impressions
During my first week, I found the JCDP a very supportive environment and community. My line manager and assigned buddy helped me settle into the programme seamlessly. I immediately felt inspired by the volume and variety of development opportunities.
"I joined AtkinsRéalis because they prioritize employees – the effort the organization puts in to ensure junior consultants feel valued and supported is clear."
—Lottie, Graduate Consultant
The most valuable lesson I've learnt
The importance of networking has stood out for me. The many networking events across the organization have been vital for my career development and confidence and for building relationships.
The projects graduate consultants get to work on
Since joining a year ago, I have worked on many client and internal projects, from cost modelling to supporting one of our employee resource groups and working for a key account in ADS&T as a work-package manager. These roles gave me excellent insight into new markets and opened doors for diverse networks and skills development. Across everything we do, I love that our projects, work, and initiatives create better environmental and community outcomes.
"Don't assume, because you're new, that your ideas and opinions won't be appreciated or valued. Be confident you have something valuable to contribute, regardless of your background or experience."
—Lottie, Graduate Consultant
Opportunities across different markets
Being part of the JCDP has given me the flexibility to try out different roles and industries to discover the direction I would like to take in my career. And, in ADS&T, there are many different markets to choose from, with presentations and internal initiatives helping us discover more.
How graduates are supported
Whenever you start a new role, there are always challenges. At AtkinsRéalis, the culture and support, from line managers to training and coaching, make these transitions smoother. The culture ensures safe work environments where every team member has the confidence to speak up about their ideas and isn't afraid to make mistakes. We can raise concerns, no matter what our grade or experience is.
"The JCDP is a great community – we all support each other, working and socializing together across different business areas."
— Lottie, Graduate Consultant
AtkinsRéalis policies that graduates rate most
Top of my list is our flexible working policy, which encourages a healthy work-life balance in graduates. I also enjoy the strong emphasis and commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I), where every staff member is welcome to get involved in our various employee resource groups and events. It's great that we have easy access to trained Mental Health First Aiders and plenty of support and resources to keep us mentally, physically and financially well.
How AtkinsRealis aligns with my personal and professional values
I've always believed strongly in doing the right thing. I take pride in delivering the best result in everything I do. As an advocate for ED&I, I’m passionate about working for a company that commits to a fair and safe workplace for all. I enjoy working with and learning from others from a wide variety of backgrounds. I've always participated in team sports and activities. I have found that I thrive in a team environment and love collaborating with others and seeing their different strengths come together to support one another.
I've always been curious about how things work and how to improve processes, hence my interest in science. I bring this to the workplace, always thinking of ways to continually improve. I also love to work with people who are very different from me, and this diversity of thinking generates the best and most innovative ideas!
My advice if you're interested in a graduate consultant role with us
Find out more about AtkinsRéalis. Understanding a company and ensuring its values align with yours before you apply is essential. If you want flexibility and breadth of experience, join us. This is a great place to discover your dream career direction and achieve your best.Learn everything about our graduate programme and apply now.
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
05/16/2024
Summary
Graduate transport planners help create efficient, safe, and sustainable transportation networks that meet the needs of communities and support economic growth. Why is their role so significant
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
05/14/2024
Summary
So, you’re thinking about starting a graduate scheme in civil engineering? Well, you’re in for a rewarding journey. With access to professional development opportunities, mentoring sessions, an
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
05/10/2024
Summary
Meet Madeleine, a graduate project manager and a rising star in our Project & Programme Services team at AtkinsRéalis. In just six months, Madeleine has become an invaluable team member on a tran
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
05/09/2024
Summary
In today’s job market, it’s smart to think about the long-term trajectory of your career. After all, the world is evolving faster than ever, and the pace of change is unlikely to slow. With that
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/30/2024
Summary
Welcome to our first blog in our Digital Her series, which spotlights Hanna and Madhurima, two colleagues championing the initiative. Digital Her by Manchester Digital advocates for equality i
Preview
GeneralContent type
ProjectsPublish date
04/24/2024
Summary
No one-size-fits-all career path for me at AtkinsRéalis. I'm Emma, a Graduate Electrical Engineer at AtkinsRéalis. I studied Electrical and Mechanical Engineering MEng at uni, and at th
Preview
GeneralContent type
ProjectsPublish date
04/24/2024
Summary
Cementing my decision to pursue Civil Engineering I'm Luke, and I'm currently doing a MEng Civil Engineering degree. When I was offered a placement with AtkinsRéalis, I was excited and j
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/10/2024
Summary
What’s the first thing that springs to mind when you think of an apprenticeship? Maybe it’s hands-on learning or professional development. What about establishing friendships and professional re
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/10/2024
Summary
Hello, I'm Aishah Latif, a proud graduate of the University of Salford with a First Class degree in BEng Civil Engineering. So, how did I end up in rail? My career journey began when I joined A
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
04/09/2024
Summary
If you’ve found yourself asking, ‘Are apprenticeships worth it?’, you’re not the only person. It goes without saying that apprenticeships are a great way to learn, gain confidence, and kick-star
AtkinsRéalis
Talent community
Would you like to know more? Not ready to apply? Join our talent community to stay connected and engaged with us at AtkinsRéalis.
Find out more