From reinvention to recognition: My journey to becoming a chartered project professional

At AtkinsRéalis, we believe every career has its own rhythm, some are linear, others evolve through reinvention, resilience, and rediscovery. Kajal’s story reflects the power of embracing change, stepping forward with courage, and building a career on your own terms. From restarting her corporate journey to becoming the first Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) from our Global Technology Centre, her path is one of determination and purpose.

 Read her story in her own words.

Finding my way forward

My career began in 2001 as a sales and marketing executive, but life took me in new directions. When I moved to the UK with my family in 2006, I earned a childcare qualification (NVQ Level 3) and began working in the education sector to balance work and family and be able to take care of my daughter at the same time. This phase allowed me to continue growing, learning, and staying professionally active all while balancing personal responsibilities.

After returning to India, I continued teaching for a few years and completed Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.). As my children grew older and more independent, it was time to return to the corporate world and re‑establish my professional identity.

A new beginning at AtkinsRéalis

In 2016, I joined AtkinsRéalis, marking a pivotal moment in my journey. Since then, I’ve contributed across diverse roles in Project Delivery and Information Management. While working closely with different teams, I realized something important — managing people, tasks, and outcomes came naturally to me.

This intuitive understanding of coordination and planning helped me transition into project management responsibilities. To complement my experience with strong business acumen, I pursued an MBA, which sharpened my strategic thinking, leadership approach, and ability to manage diverse stakeholders effectively. Equipped with this broader perspective, I contributed to large, complex, and multidisciplinary initiatives, and with each passing year, my confidence and capabilities deepened. I am truly grateful to leaders in both India and globally who believed in my potential and supported me through each phase of my development.

Choosing the path to chartered status

I had always admired professionals who earned Chartered status through various institutions. It made me wonder if I could achieve something similar in project management. That curiosity led me to the Association for Project Management (APM) — the only body offering Chartered recognition in this field.

I began my journey by completing the APM Project Management Qualification. But I knew I wanted to go further.

Starting the Chartered process wasn’t easy. Being the first one from my office Global Technology Center (GTC) to pursue it, which meant fewer local resources, no ready‑made peer groups, and limited access to mentors, the process felt unfamiliar, sometimes overwhelming, but I stayed committed.

Self‑motivation, discipline, and the belief that I could achieve this milestone helped me move forward step by step.

What this milestone means to me

Becoming a Chartered Project Professional isn’t just a title.

Professionally, it validates my skills, strengthens my ability to contribute at a higher level, and allows me to support the project management community more meaningfully.

Personally, it represents years of reinvention, determination, and continuous learning and a reminder that it’s never too late to grow your career.

I am deeply thankful to my mentors, my supportive leadership, and above all, my family who have been the foundation of my journey for over two decades. Balancing studying, parenting, and full‑time work hasn’t been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding.

Life outside work

Beyond work, I cherish life’s simple pleasures — cooking for my family, exploring new places together, and immersing myself in music. These moments keep me grounded and bring a sense of balance to my world.

My advice to others

To anyone aspiring to become Chartered or navigating a career transition here’s my message:

Start small, stay consistent, and don’t rush the outcome. Identify your gaps, work on them, and success will follow.

Kajal’s story is a reminder that careers aren’t defined by where you start, but by the courage to keep moving forward.

If you’re ready to explore what’s possible and grow in an environment that supports your ambitions, discover opportunities with AtkinsRéalis and begin your own journey today.