AtkinsRéalis and Scout Engineering & Consulting have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly pursue engineering, infrastructure, energy, transportation, defence and industrial projects while expanding Indigenous participation in major developments across Canada.

The agreement establishes a framework for long-term collaboration between Montreal-based AtkinsRéalis and the 100% Indigenous-owned engineering and consulting firm, with a focus on strengthening Indigenous partnerships, building community capacity and supporting economic development. The companies said they will work together on engineering, project management, environmental services, governance, Indigenous advisory services and community infrastructure projects nationwide.

“Canada’s future infrastructure must be delivered through partnerships that create lasting value,” said Stéphanie Vaillancourt, Canadian president of AtkinsRéalis. “We have partnered with Indigenous nations and communities for decades in Canada. Building on this experience, our partnership with Scout reflects a shared commitment to doing so in ways that build trust, strengthen capacity, and create opportunities that go beyond a single project. By combining our strengths, we can support projects that are delivered with technical excellence, create meaningful economic value and are rooted in long-term relationships.”

The companies said the partnership is intended to move beyond project-by-project engagement by expanding Indigenous leadership and ownership, supporting Indigenous businesses, creating employment and professional development opportunities, and sharing knowledge to build long-term institutional capacity. The collaboration also aligns with AtkinsRéalis’ ReconciliACTION Plan, which guides its Indigenous relations strategy in Canada, said the company.

“We are moving towards a broader ecosystem of Indigenous prosperity and self-determination through this partnership,” said Steven Vaivada, president and founder of Scout. “The forests that flourish aren’t built by the tallest trees. They are built through interconnection and healthy relationships. Every tree and animal remains distinct, but beneath the surface they are connected–sharing resources, supporting growth, and making the entire ecosystem more resilient.

“We are working with our community and those who share our approach to build Indigenous Canada, and that affects everyone. When Indigenous nations, communities, businesses, governments, and industry prosper, all Canadians benefit.”

AtkinsRéalis is a world-leading engineering-services company. Scout is a 100% Indigenous-owned engineering and consulting firm.