Thomas Robert Atkins, B.Sc., P.Eng., LEED® AP Honoured at ACEC-SK Awards of Distinction

The Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Saskatchewan  (ACEC-SK) honoured Thomas Robert Atkins, B.Sc., P.Eng., LEED® AP as the 2021 recipient of the prestigious Lieutenant Governor Meritorious Achievement Award at their annual Awards of Distinction on November 16, 2021 in
Saskatoon, SK.

Tom started in the consulting engineering world in 1982 when he joined Yoneda & Associates Partnership. After a short hiatus with another firm in the mid-‘80s, he returned to Yoneda and became one of its five partners in 1989. Tom was then one of six partners to also purchase McCartan, Gaudet & Associates in 1992. Tom joined Stantec on January 1, 2002, through the acquisition of Yoneda & Associates Partnership in Regina and McCartan, Gaudet & Associates in Saskatoon.

Tom is a truly dependable and revered leader. He is always willing to help out, step in, and be of service. He takes on any challenge that comes his way. Knowing the importance of building a strong practice, Tom has always supported the career aspirations of his team members. He has been a mentor to many, creating a fulsome practice in Saskatchewan and beyond. He was one of Stantec’s best practitioners.

Tom acted as Buildings Vice President for Canada West, demonstrating strong leadership in many facets of the industry. It is this passion for others and a real spirit of teamwork that has created his true legacy within the practice.

Throughout his career, Tom has shared his know-how, his common-sense approach to design, and his high standards for delivery of quality work. Whether he’s the engineer or project manager, or a practice leader or discipline leader, and whether he’s taking on projects for a K-12 school or university, a forensic laboratory, or a long-term care home, Tom is the classic engineer whose versatility and skills are always evident. Tom was practicing sustainable design before it was in vogue, simply because it was the right thing to do. His work has benefitted our community and many others across the world. An outstanding mechanical engineer, Tom is passionate about design and is deeply committed to delivering great work for his clients.

Tom has an impressive resume with over 40 years of experience in industry. If there was only one project that reflects Tom’s legacy it would have to be the Five Hills Regional Hospital in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. It was the first hospital in Canada to employ the Integrated Project Delivery model to design and construct the $86,000,000 project in less than 4 years – a full year shorter than a traditional project delivery. A huge part of the success of the project was due to the leadership and direction provided by Tom. 

Tom has been active in the industry during his career:
• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating & Air-Conditioning Engineers – Regina Chapter - Student Activities Chair
• Member at Large, Engineering Advisory Board – University of Regina
• Expert Witness
• ACEC-SK – Various Committees

Tom has been a volunteer with Scouts Canada acting in a number of roles including Past Leader, Advisor, and Group Committee member with Volunteer activities. Tom is an avid wood worker and cyclist.