Life as a Planning Engineer at AtkinsRéalis: Samira's Journey

At AtkinsRéalis, every team member brings a unique blend of talent, expertise, and passion to their work. For Samira Alhameli, a Planning Engineer based in Abu Dhabi, her role exemplifies growth, collaboration, and professional fulfilment within a supportive environment that champions innovation.  

This blog explores Samira's inspiring career path, her experiences at AtkinsRéalis, and her advice for aspiring professionals looking to build their future with the company.  

Discovering the path to engineering  

Samira's career began with an academic foundation in mechanical engineering. Having graduated from UAE University in 2022 with a Bachelor's degree, she first joined AtkinsRéalis as a Junior Mechanical Engineer with prior experience in planning and project management. Her fascination with engineering principles and a keen eye for detail quickly made her an asset to the team.  

However, it didn't take long before Samira transitioned into planning, where her skills naturally aligned with the demands of the role. Today, she is a key contributor to the planning activities of the Saadiyat Marina District NYU project, a milestone achievement in her budding career.  

Beyond her professional pursuits, Samira dedicates significant time to volunteering and community initiatives, representing the multifaceted values that AtkinsRéalis encourages in its employees.  

Fostering growth though a collaborative culture 

When asked what she appreciates most about the company, Samira pointed to its culture as a standout aspect. Working at AtkinsRéalis means collaborating with professionals from a wide range of cultures and nationalities. Samira believes that the emphasis on mutual respect, open communication, and idea sharing fosters a positive workspace that is both welcoming and growth-oriented.  

"The diversity of nationalities and the strong emphasis on mutual respect make AtkinsRéalis a great place to grow both professionally and personally," she shares.  

Insights for aspiring professionals  

To those considering a career at AtkinsRéalis, Samira offers practical and encouraging advice.  

"The environment here is immensely supportive. Take initiative, ask questions, and remain open to feedback. That mindset can accelerate your learning and build strong professional relationships," she advises.  

She also recommends seeking mentorship and networking with colleagues to gain insights and guidance along the way. "The opportunity to connect with experienced professionals here has been one of the most valuable parts of my growth at AtkinsRéalis."  

Empowering employees 

According to Samira, the organisation's leadership empowers employees to think outside the box and contribute their unique perspectives. Managers foster innovation by providing continuous support and encouraging employees to share and implement new ideas. Samira appreciates how the organisation creates an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, feels valued, respected, and equipped for success.  

Strong leadership and teamwork 

Great leadership is instrumental to employee growth, and Samira has experienced this firsthand. She credits her managers for exemplifying professionalism and support. 

"They lead by example, ensuring that team members are well-guided and encouraged to think independently," Samira explains.   

The strong sense of collaboration within her team makes every project a rewarding experience. From receiving the trust to send official emails to participating in meetings with clients, consultants, and contractors, Samira feels empowered to take on increasing responsibility and develop new skills.

Striking the balance

Managing work-life balance is crucial in a demanding career, and AtkinsRéalis supports its employees in achieving this through effective prioritisation and managerial support. For Samira, staying focused during work hours and leveraging clear guidance from her line manager have been key to maintaining balance and productivity, enabling her to thrive both professionally and personally.  

Looking ahead 

With AtkinsRéalis continuing to grow and evolve, Samira is focused on enhancing her expertise as a Planning Engineer. Her ultimate goal? To become a Lead Planner, taking charge of planning activities for large-scale projects independently.  

With the support of exceptional mentors and access to challenging and rewarding opportunities, she is well on her way to achieving that vision.  

Building your future with AtkinsRéalis

Samira's story is a testament to AtkinsRéalis' commitment to its employees' growth and innovation. Whether you're an aspiring graduate or a seasoned professional, the company offers the opportunity to work on impactful projects, collaborate with top talent, and push the boundaries of what's possible in engineering.  

If you're ready to take the next step in your career, explore opportunities at AtkinsRéalis today.