Leading geotechnical work with purpose in Québec city

Long before leadership became part of her title, Marielle built her career around work that has a visible effect on the world around her. Based in Québec City, she helps guide geotechnical projects that support infrastructure and development, while also helping people grow in their own careers. That combination gives her work real impact; it shapes projects, strengthens teams, and supports communities that rely on safe, high-quality outcomes.

For engineers who want responsibility with purpose, her path shows what that can look like in practice.

Where technical judgment meets leadership

Marielle is a Project Manager and Geotechnical Team Lead at AtkinsRéalis in Québec City. Since July 2025, she has also led the geotechnical teams in the Québec City and Trois-Rivières offices.

Her role brings together technical expertise, project delivery, and people leadership. She oversees geotechnical mandates from planning through execution, with a clear focus on technical quality, budget control, and client satisfaction. At the same time, she supports team members, encourages collaboration, and helps create the conditions for strong performance.

That balance matters. Geotechnical work sits close to the foundations of major projects. Decisions made early can influence quality, safety, and long-term reliability. This is why leadership in this space is not separate from engineering. It is an extension of it.

As Marielle says, “I enjoy balancing technical work, project management, and leadership responsibilities, all while contributing to projects that have a tangible impact on communities.”

Work that carries real purpose

The value of geotechnical engineering often becomes clear in the results. Better decisions. Lower risk. Stronger infrastructure. More confidence for clients and communities alike.

Marielle’s work helps move projects forward efficiently while maintaining high standards. That means coordinating people, reviewing technical work, and making sure the right conversations happen at the right time. It also means staying accountable for outcomes.

For anyone considering a move into project management or leadership, that is the real stretch. This kind of role is not about stepping away from engineering - it is about using engineering judgment more broadly and helping teams deliver work that serves a bigger purpose.

Growing into leadership and helping others do the same

Since joining AtkinsRéalis in November 2018, Marielle has grown from a project-focused technical role into a leadership position. Along the way, she has developed her project management experience, deepened her geotechnical expertise, and taken on broader responsibility for team development.

For Marielle, one of the most meaningful parts of her experience is seeing women in leadership. “These leaders are strong role models who demonstrate that it is possible to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact in engineering”, she says.

That visibility matters. It helps create confidence. It shows graduates, early-career engineers, and future leaders what is possible when talent is recognized and supported.

Marielle’s advice is simple and forward-looking: “Trust the process, stay curious, and not be afraid to take on new challenges.” Growth, she believes, often starts just beyond your comfort zone.

If you are ready to build a career with purpose, connection, and growth, explore opportunities at AtkinsRéalis.