AtkinsRéalis Pioneers Tech Talent with Industry-first Hackathon
AtkinsRéalis, a global leader in engineering services and the nuclear sector, is shaking up the traditional recruitment process with an industry-first initiative. Their innovative campaign, centred around a hackathon dubbed ‘#HackaFuture,’ offers a unique opportunity for top tech talent to bypass the typical CV and interview route and instead, showcase their skills in a hands-on challenge.
The reward? Five permanent roles for the winning team, with each participant stepping into a career in a fast-growing digital team.
In today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape, solutions involving robotics, augmented reality (AR), gaming engines, and drones are becoming essential components in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure projects. AtkinsRéalis’ digital teams, operating at the cutting edge of these technologies, are on the lookout for the next generation of innovators to join their ranks.
A Hackathon Like No Other
The ‘#HackaFuture’ event, slated for February 8-9, 2025, in Manchester, is set to be a first-of-its-kind recruitment initiative within the UK engineering sector. Unlike the traditional approach, where academic qualifications and years of experience often act as barriers, this event encourages participants from all walks of life. Whether you’re a software developer, a data scientist, or even a gamer, the hackathon is designed to find individuals with creative problem-solving abilities and innovative mindsets.
Participants will collaborate in teams to develop prototype solutions to real-world challenges using cutting-edge technology. And here’s the kicker—no specific qualifications are required to enter. This approach offers an open door for those who might have been overlooked by conventional recruitment methods but possess the technical skills and creativity needed to thrive in a dynamic environment.
Sam Stephens, Head of Digital for AtkinsRéalis’ nuclear business, shared his excitement about the event: “Our digital teams work in dynamic and fast-paced environments, and we’re looking for a whole mix of skill sets and backgrounds to develop our technology solutions. We have over 500 patented solutions developed for the UK and clients across our global business, and the winning teams will be at the heart of driving innovation to power a clean energy future.”
Pioneering Digital Solutions in Clean Energy and Beyond
AtkinsRéalis is no stranger to digital innovation. With an already impressive portfolio of over 500 patented solutions, the company is a key player in driving forward technological advancements in clean energy, nuclear power, and sustainable infrastructure. The expansion of their digital teams reflects a growing need for fresh talent that can push the envelope of what’s possible.
As clean energy continues to rise in importance, the role of technology in the sector cannot be overstated. Whether it’s through the use of AR to improve project planning, drones to inspect infrastructure, or AI-powered analytics to optimise energy production, the opportunities for tech-savvy professionals are endless. The ‘#HackaFuture’ hackathon is poised to identify those with the passion and creativity to contribute to this rapidly growing field.
By challenging the status quo, AtkinsRéalis is making a bold statement: the future of engineering doesn’t rest solely in the hands of those with traditional qualifications. It’s a call to action for tech enthusiasts, problem solvers, and innovators from diverse backgrounds to step forward and make their mark.
Greater Manchester: A Hotbed for Tech Talent
Manchester, the host city for the hackathon, has long been recognised as a thriving hub for digital innovation. With its rich history in technology, engineering, and industry, the city is home to a diverse and dynamic tech ecosystem, making it the perfect location for an event like this.
Katie Gallagher, Managing Director of Manchester Digital, the organisation behind the Digital Skills Festival where the event is being held, commented on the importance of this partnership: “This hackathon will kickstart our Digital Skills Festival with a dynamic challenge designed to tap into the brightest minds and digital innovators within the region’s thriving tech ecosystem. AtkinsRéalis is looking for digitally savvy individuals who are ready to disrupt the industry with their ideas and skills, and the tech talent in Greater Manchester is the ideal location to focus their search.”
The hackathon not only serves as a competition but also as a gateway to uncovering the hidden gems of the tech industry in Greater Manchester and beyond. The focus on regional talent reflects AtkinsRéalis’ commitment to investing in the local economy and the future of digital skills development.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in participating, AtkinsRéalis is keeping the application process straightforward. Teams of up to five can sign up to take part, and for those who don’t have a team, the company will help match individuals with prospective competitors to create balanced teams with complementary skills. The deadline for registration is 30 November 2024, and applications can be submitted via the company’s official careers page.
In addition to the permanent roles on offer for the winning team, all participants will be considered for current and future job opportunities within AtkinsRéalis’ growing digital and technology departments. With openings already available in areas such as digital and technology, data intelligence, transportation technology, and software, there are plenty of avenues for tech talent to explore.
Investing in Future Talent
The ‘#HackaFuture’ hackathon isn’t just a recruitment drive—it’s an investment in the future of the engineering industry. By removing the typical barriers to entry, AtkinsRéalis is providing a platform for underrepresented voices and unconventional thinkers to shine.
Beyond the immediate job opportunities, all participants will have access to career mentors, offering guidance and support as they navigate their professional journeys. The hackathon is designed not only to find top talent but to nurture it, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the organisation.
AtkinsRéalis’ commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond hackathons. The company already offers a range of apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and career development opportunities aimed at ensuring the next generation of engineers and tech professionals are equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
A Bright Future for Tech Talent
As the digital revolution continues to reshape industries, events like ‘#HackaFuture’ are essential in bridging the gap between tech talent and opportunities in critical sectors like clean energy and sustainable infrastructure. By creating a platform that prioritises creativity and problem-solving over qualifications, AtkinsRéalis is leading the charge in redefining what it means to recruit for the future.
With the hackathon just months away, the excitement is building. Tech enthusiasts, engineers, and digital innovators alike are encouraged to seize the opportunity and take part in what promises to be a groundbreaking event. The future of the engineering industry is wide open, and ‘#HackaFuture’ could be the first step towards shaping it.
