My Stantec Story: Jonathan Dodkins builds a graduate career in air quality consulting

How has your personal and professional development been supported at Stantec?

Stantec provides a lot of training through the official graduate programme, on-the-job training, and additional interdisciplinary talks and presentations. I’m supported to learn and further develop my understanding of topics I work on, both with my team and through access to Stantec’s training resources. I’ve learned a lot through various talks and presentations on other issues such as ecology, acoustics and more, and have the opportunity to talk with specialists in these fields regularly. Personally, I’m supported closely by my line manager through monthly catch ups, and I’m given great flexibility to fit out-of-work commitments around my work week. This helps me to keep my personal goals on-track, and balance work commitments.

What has been the standout project for you during your time at Stantec?

I’ve worked on a number of air quality assessments for residential schemes, but one in particular, a residential development to the south of Bristol, the city I live in, was a highlight. I assessed the impact of increased traffic flows on air quality at sensitive residences and ecological sites near the Grove Farm development. This project stood out for a number of reasons—I was exposed to new things in ecological modelling, I was sufficiently challenged with a number of issues to address, and I was well supported by my team. The added bonus? Working on a project in my home city and assessing some areas I frequently visit.

What are your ambitions for your future at Stantec?

My key ambition is to develop my skills and progress within my team. I would like to become increasingly comfortable taking on more responsibilities and more leadership on projects as well as be more exposed to a wider range of projects. To continue with my personal growth, I would like to take advantage of the many developmental opportunities Stantec offers, such as STEM support in the community and office committee leadership positions.

What are your passions outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy sport, mainly football, which I play 11-a-side locally, and running, often doing both with my office mates. I try to run at least twice a week—I think it’s very beneficial for my mood, productivity, and health, as well as increasing my fitness. I also like cycling, chess, and music including playing guitar.

Why should others join the Stantec team?

I think Stantec is a great place to build a career. With a wide range of people, and especially a strong graduate cohort, there are great networking opportunities. Stantec’s strong ethics and company identity also means that you can be confident you’ll be supported with both your wellbeing and personal development. Being exposed to others’ expertise is great for your professional development too—Stantec’s wide range of projects gives you exposure to lots of different work.

At Stantec, we put people first. For Jonathan, that means gaining broad project experience and being around other professionals who can mentor him along his career path.. If you want to start your career at Stantec, visit Careers to find out more.