The Engineering Award is presented to an engineer who has achieved distinction in the practice of engineering. The achievement may be a single event or a series of events that set a benchmark for others in the profession.  

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Denisse Justiniano, P.Eng., has built a career that spans continents, disciplines, and communities—but at its core, it’s a story of engineering excellence, resilience, and leadership. From low-income housing in Mexico to high-rise towers in Alberta and marine infrastructure in Newfoundland, Denisse’s work reflects a deep commitment to solving complex problems with clarity, compassion, and technical precision.  

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Originally from Bolivia, Denisse earned her bachelor's in civil engineering, followed by a master's in business administration in Spain and a Master of Science in Structural Engineering in Mexico. Her graduate thesis led to the construction of 83 homes and a patented dome formwork—early proof that her designs don’t just live on paper, they change lives.  

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Her professional journey has taken her across South America, the U.S., and Canada. She’s led structural design on residential, military bases, refineries, heliports, and towers, including the WhiteRose Extension Project and Hebron Project in Newfoundland & Labrador, the Yanbu refinery in Saudi Arabia, and a 25-storey concrete tower in Kelowna. She’s also contributed to affordable housing in Banff, military bases and training facilities in Greenwood, NS, Gagetown, NB, Comox & Esquimalt in BC and supporting Public work locally in Nova Scotia.  

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Since 2020, Denisse has served as Structural Lead for Eastern and Western Canada at AtkinsRéalis, where she oversees multidisciplinary teams and complex building portfolios. Her leadership is collaborative and hands-on—she’s known for setting high standards while creating space for others to grow. Her ability to navigate technical challenges, mentor junior staff, and lead diverse teams has earned her the respect of clients, contractors, and colleagues across the industry.  

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Denisse’s contributions to the profession extend beyond project delivery. She’s a member of multiple provincial engineering associations and has served on the PEGNL board, where she promoted wellness and recreation among engineers. She’s also developed and delivered lectures on structural systems and regularly mentors engineers-in-training, especially women entering the field.  

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Her commitment to community is equally strong. She founded a running club to promote wellness in the workplace, even while recovering from a knee injury. She’s coached others through training programs, organized hikes, and inspired colleagues and friends to embrace movement and health. Her passion for wellness is personal, but her impact is shared.  

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Denisse’s career reflects what engineering can be—technically rigorous, socially responsive, and deeply human. For her distinguished achievements in structural engineering, her leadership across disciplines and regions, and her commitment to mentorship and professional growth, Denisse Justiniano, P.Eng., receives the 2025 Engineering Award.