Engineering the systems behind everyday life: Viola Lee’s story

Read how early career engineers contribute to resilient infrastructure, build connections, and grow through real-world experience at AtkinsRéalis.

Starting a career in engineering often means balancing technical learning with real responsibility, while finding your place in a fast‑moving environment.

For Viola Lee, a Graduate Engineer in the Water team based in Hong Kong, that journey has been both challenging and rewarding. From contributing to critical infrastructure work to building connections across teams and regions, her experience shows how early careers are shaped not just by the work itself, but by the people and opportunities along the way.

“I’ve been able to contribute to meaningful projects while continuing to grow and learn every day,” she says.

Contributing to systems that shape everyday life

In her role, Viola supports projects that strengthen essential infrastructure across the city. Her work includes drainage design, utility coordination, and water supply systems, alongside developing models and carrying out assessments to support long‑term planning.

Day to day, she analyses data, runs simulations, and helps teams evaluate how infrastructure can adapt to future demands. While the work is technical, its purpose is clear.

“It’s about making sure the systems we rely on every day remain resilient and capable of supporting future needs,” she explains.

Through this, she is building technical expertise while gaining a clearer understanding of how planning and strategy come together to support communities.

Learning through real‑world challenges

A key part of Viola’s experience has been contributing to long‑term work that looks ahead at how infrastructure must evolve. This includes supporting assessments of water systems and understanding how changing behaviors and environmental factors affect future demand.

“Working on this kind of work gives you a broader perspective,” she says. “You’re not just looking at today but thinking about what’s needed in the future.”

This forward‑looking exposure has helped her connect technical learning with real‑world impact, strengthening both her confidence and understanding.

Growing through collaboration and shared knowledge

Learning from others has been another defining part of Viola’s journey. Through webinars, knowledge‑sharing sessions, and collaboration with colleagues across regions, she has continued to expand her skills and perspective.

One standout experience was working with teams in the Global Technical Centre, where she deepened her technical knowledge while gaining insight into the organisation’s global expertise.

“It showed me how connected our teams are,” she reflects. “You’re learning from a much wider network.”

Building connections beyond the project

Beyond her technical role, Viola has also found purpose through her involvement in the Emerging Professionals Network (Asia Young Professionals community). Organizing activities ranging from volunteering initiatives to social events has helped her connect with colleagues across teams and disciplines.

“These experiences bring people together in a different way,” she says. “They help you build connections beyond day‑to‑day work.”

These interactions have strengthened her sense of belonging and made her experience more meaningful.

A journey shaped by growth and connection

For Viola, her experience at AtkinsRéalis is defined by both learning and connection. Each project and interaction continues to shape her growth, building confidence and capability over time.

Her story reflects how early careers develop through exposure, support, and a willingness to keep learning. As she continues to take on new challenges, her journey is still unfolding, driven by purpose and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

If you’re looking to start your own career in an environment where you can learn, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging, you can explore opportunities at AtkinsRéalis and see where your path could lead.