Start a career as a civil engineer: insights from a graduate at AtkinsRéalis

Hi, I'm Yuxiang, a Graduate Civil Engineer at AtkinsRéalis. After an inspiring summer placement with the organization (and after my graduation) I joined the highways team in Epsom. The Graduate Development Programme has been a fantastic start to my career, offering great training and a strong foundation for growth. In this blog, I'll talk about what I do in my role and how I benefit from the team's supportive culture.

Balancing health, safety, and project delivery in highway engineering

My role involves managing project delivery for highway construction and renewal projects across East England. On a typical day, I focus on supporting the health and safety of projects once construction work is complete. This includes working closely with clients and contractors to gather the necessary details and understand any hazards related to the works.

Using digital tools like QGIS and Civil 3D in civil engineering careers

One of the most rewarding tasks I handle is managing asbestos risk on the East of England highways network. I use digital tools like QGIS and Civil 3D to create engineering drawings and manage highways' data, helping assess risks for contractors on site. Working with this technology is incredibly exciting because it allows me to visualize complex data and create accurate solutions that make a real difference in project safety and efficiency. It's amazing to see how these tools bring engineering challenges to life in such a dynamic way.

Skills for civil engineering graduates: lessons from managing highways asbestos risks

This work has significantly enhanced my skills as a Graduate Civil Engineer, improving my understanding of England's highways' network and deepening my expertise with tools like QGIS and Civil 3D. The biggest lesson I've learned from this experience is the importance of good independent judgment in estimating the time and effort needed to complete work on schedule.

How supportive work culture drives success for entry-level civil engineers

I've received invaluable support from senior engineers, including guidance on the technical details of engineering drawings, understanding contract scope and requirements, and advice on achieving chartered status with a professional institution. This support has not only helped me perform better on my current project but has also been instrumental in shaping my long-term career growth in the industry. I also really appreciate the work culture at AtkinsRéalis. Everyone treats each other with respect and has been incredibly kind and welcoming to me.

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