Arnav Prakash: growth goes beyond developing technical skills

Broadening perspectives through people and experiences

Arnav explains how curiosity, collaboration and a willingness to embrace new challenges have helped him develop his aviation planning career, contribute to complex airport projects and pursue opportunities beyond his day-to-day role.

What do you do at Mott MacDonald and what are you currently working on?

I am an aviation planner, where I support planning and analytical projects across the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey airport system. My role involves working with complex datasets, developing models and planning tools, and translating technical information into insights that support airport planning and operational decision-making. Currently, I am involved in a range of aviation projects, including demand and capacity projects and AirTrain planning, where I have had the opportunity to learn new simulation tools, work with multidisciplinary teams across multiple regions, and contribute to long-term planning efforts for some of the busiest and most complex airport systems in the world.

What does a typical day look like for you at Mott MacDonald, and how do you find opportunities to excel in your role?

No two days are ever quite the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my role. A typical day might involve working with datasets, developing planning tools and analyses, collaborating with project teams, or supporting discussions that help inform airport planning decisions. I find opportunities to excel by staying curious and continuously looking beyond my immediate responsibilities. That often means building strong relationships. I make a conscious effort to stay engaged with what is happening across the business through emails, Compass, advancing committees, and other internal forums and initiatives. Those connections often open doors to new ideas and opportunities for growth.

What opportunities have you had to grow your specialism or develop your career here?

Mott MacDonald has given me opportunities to grow in ways that go far beyond technical development. I have been supported in pursuing technical training, attending conferences, participating in industry competitions, contributing to professional forums, and getting involved in initiatives beyond my day-to-day role. What I value most, however, is the trust and support behind those opportunities. That combination of opportunity, support, and trust has played a significant role in shaping my growth, both professionally and personally.

At work, how do you manage your safety and wellbeing?

Safety and wellbeing are extremely important to me. I make a conscious effort to stay informed about relevant advisories and guidance, while also doing my part to report and address health and safety concerns when needed. Beyond that, I believe safety and wellbeing are a shared responsibility. Communicating openly, looking out for one another, and creating an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up can make a significant difference. Not every challenge is visible, and sometimes simply offering a listening ear, lending a hand, or asking for help when you need it can go a long way in supporting both individual and team wellbeing.

What does it mean to you to be trusted to do brilliant things at Mott MacDonald?

I feel one cannot do brilliant things without mutual trust and respect. At Mott MacDonald, there is a supportive culture and a deep sense of trust and ownership.

Many of the things I do confidently today were once completely new to me, and I did not know where to start. I think that openness and clear communication help build trust.

That trust has allowed me to pursue opportunities both within and beyond the business that I never imagined when I first joined. One example is currently serving as a panel member for an Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP) project sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and hosted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM).

For me, being trusted to do brilliant things means being given the confidence to explore new challenges, contribute in meaningful ways, and represent both myself and Mott MacDonald beyond the boundaries of my role.

How do you collaborate with colleagues to achieve common goals?

For me, collaboration starts with relationships. I enjoy building connections with people across different teams, disciplines, and regions because some of the best ideas often come from different perspectives. I try to contribute where I can by sharing knowledge, learning from others, and helping make complex information easier to understand so that everyone can move forward together. Whether it's working through a challenging analysis, mentoring a colleague, or simply asking questions myself, I have found that the best outcomes are achieved when people communicate openly, trust one another, and focus on the collective goal rather than individual contributions.

How does being part of an employee-owned business shape the way you work?

Being part of an employee-owned business gives me a sense of ownership and responsibility that goes beyond the work itself. It reinforces the idea that we all have a role to play in shaping the future of the business while staying true to our PRIDE values and supporting the communities we serve. One experience that brought this to life for me was being selected as a member of the inaugural Our Voice forum, where colleagues from different roles, levels, and regions come together to help bring employee perspectives into conversations with senior leadership. It deepened my appreciation for the talent, experiences, and ideas across Mott MacDonald and reinforced what I value most about employee ownership: having a voice in helping shape it.

How does Mott MacDonald create an environment where you feel empowered and supported?

Mott MacDonald makes a conscious effort to invest in its people through Learning and Development programs, opportunities for exposure across the business, and experiences that encourage personal and professional growth.

Catalyst 2026 was a great example of that investment. I came away with new connections, fresh ideas, and an even deeper appreciation for the talented people who make Mott MacDonald such a great place to be. Experiences like that remind me that growth is not only about developing skills, but also about broadening perspectives and learning from the people around you.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their career at Mott MacDonald?

Be curious, say yes to opportunities, and do not be afraid to admit when you do not know something. That can be intimidating, especially early in your career, but I have found that people are far more willing to support you when you are honest and willing to learn. Stay open to new ideas, seek out experiences beyond your immediate role, and take the time to build relationships across the business. Most importantly, embrace the opportunity to work on projects that make a meaningful difference to the communities we live in. You do not need to have all the answers on day one, but a willingness to learn, contribute, and grow will take you a long way.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience with us?

Mott MacDonald will always be special to me because it is my first full-time role in the United States. Looking back, what I appreciate most is the trust that was placed in me from the very beginning.

I would not have been able to do any of the things I have spoken about without the people around me. Whether it was helping me slow down before my first client presentation and believe in my own abilities, quietly having my back when challenges came up, or taking a flight despite a busy schedule just to be there and cheer me on at a conference, those moments have meant more to me than words can express.