Ellie Carter

We asked Ellie…

I would recommend a career in civil or infrastructure engineering because…

Engineers have a huge influence on the world around us!

There are so many different paths you could go down in civil engineering that all improve lives. Whether that’s connecting people through transport systems, ensuring access to essential resources like water and energy, or improving resilience against climate change. 

It’s a profession where every project has a real impact on communities and the environment.

You’ll solve complex challenges, work with diverse teams, and see your ideas become reality. 

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…

A keen rugby player, although I like a challenge and I’ll try pretty much any sport!

I also enjoy travelling – my favourite destinations have been Iceland, Hawaii & Norway.

Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?

I would’ve loved to work on some of the iconic structures in Paris like the Eiffel Tower. I think the current reconstruction of the Notre Dame Cathedral would be a really interesting project to work on.

Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.

That engineers just build things! Civil engineers do much more than just construction.

We plan, design, analyse, problem-solve, and collaborate with communities to create sustainable, safe, and resilient infrastructure.

From tackling climate change to improving water systems and using digital tools to work smarter, our role is about shaping a better future – not just putting things together.

How does your role contribute to addressing climate change?

I've worked on major infrastructure projects in the UK to address some of the impacts of climate change including water scarcity and flooding.

I’ve also contributed to sustainable design initiatives to reduce our impact when delivering these projects! 

Beyond this, I have shared my learnings so others can understand what went well/not so well and how this can be used on other projects.

How does your role contribute to making the industry more diverse and inclusive?

I’m passionate about creating a more inclusive and representative engineering profession.

As a STEM ambassador, I regularly engage with schools and colleges to promote civil engineering and degree apprenticeships, particularly to underrepresented groups.

I also lead national early careers talks within AtkinsRéalis, providing a platform for young professionals to share their work, connect across disciplines, and access development opportunities.

What role does digital technology play in your job?

Digital technology is central to improving how we work. It helps to make our lives easier and increase the quality of our work!

I’ve independently learned Python and I'm developing tools to automate design calculations for buried pipelines, significantly improving efficiency and reducing errors.

I’ve also contributed to digital transformation initiatives within AtkinsRéalis, helping project teams adopt new technologies and improve planning and delivery.

My work includes developing dashboards for data analysis, carbon modelling, and design automation. All of these support better decision-making and more sustainable outcomes.

I believe digital innovation is key to driving progress in civil engineering.

What is motivating you to become professionally qualified? 

I want to lead major infrastructure projects that make a real difference.

Becoming professionally qualified with the ICE is a key step – it’s a mark of technical excellence, commitment, and credibility.

It shows that I’m ready to take on greater responsibility and contribute meaningfully to the future of the profession.

What do you value most about being an ICE member? 

As an ICE member, you have access to events and resources to progress your career and meet likeminded people in the industry.

How has being a member helped your career? 

By following an ICE training agreement, as an ICE member, I have direction throughout my apprenticeship which helps me set useful goals to progress as an engineer.