A Nuts and Bolts Job that requires Networking and Knowledge

Teong Soon speaks to us this week about being a Professional Mechanical Engineer. Being in the business for over 30 years, he's built up an impressive portfolio of work. Who else can say that they were the one who designed the Fire Protection system for Changi Airport's Terminal 2?

Read on for Teong Soon's two valuable tips for jobseekers Ƀ one that involves networking and the other on keeping up with technological changes in the engineering industry.

Ng Teong Soon,
Professional Engineer, Mechanical

Q1: Hi Teong Soon. How has 2012 been for you?

2012 has been a good year. There were more new factory and commercial buildings commissioned, so I've been able to get more projects.

Q2: What inspired you to pursue an Engineer job?

When Singapore gained its independence in 1965, there was a need to develop this small country into take it from its third world roots to the beginnings of a first world country.

I completed my A-levels in 1976 and there was an urgent need for engineers to work on massive public projects, like public housing, infrastructure projects like the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), expressways like PIE, ECP and AYE. The Singapore government had invited numerous MNCs to invest and build manufacturing plants in Singapore, and these companies needed engineers to start these projects. I became an engineer because it gave me a huge sense of pride to be involved in the building of our Nation.

There was also the added bonus that engineers earned a better starting salary than many other professions.

Q3: Let's talk about your first mechanical engineer job. What did you do for them?

My first job as a mechanical engineer was working on the construction of Changi Airport's Terminal 2. As a new mechanical engineer, the prestige on working on Singapore's gateway to the world was not lost on me.

I was responsible for the design of Fire Protection System during the design stage. When it came to the construction stage, I was the site engineer. I involved the project , from design till completion.

Q4: What was your most interesting project?

I would have to say my first project, building Changi Airport's T2. It was not only prestigious, but the size of the project was a daunting one.

Q5: Tell us more about your job in mechanical engineering now. What are the things you do on a day-to-day basis?

I decided a few years ago to branch out and set up my own business. I'm still in the professional engineering industry, but I wanted the freedom to choose my own projects.

I am also a Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) Registered Inspector, this part of the work lets me inspect and certify the fire protection systems for buildings and ensure that every building I inspect is fire safe for business. This covers both new and existing construction, as existing constructions also need regular checkups Ƀ like humans going to see a doctor.

Q6: Was starting out in your current job in the mechanical engineering industry easy?

Starting out in my job was not easy. I first had to get a degree in Mechanical Engineering and that was followed by a requirement to practice as a Mechanical Engineer for at least five years in the construction industry.

Once I fulfilled these two pre-requisites, I then applied to be a Professional Engineer (Mechanical) with the Professional Engineer Board. As a Professional Engineer (PR), I can practice as a sole proprietor for my company, or register a Pte Ltd company with the PE Board.

I prefer to practice as a sole proprietor as the startup costs are lower.

Q7: What are the career challenges you face and how do you overcome them?

There were two challenges I faced when I was starting out my own business.

The first was the network. I needed to make contacts in the construction industry and market myself to them. I introduced myself by volunteering for committee works with professional bodies like the Institute of Engineers, and also attended a number of construction seminars to network with the attendees.

The second challenge is to keep up with the change in technology and government regulations.

It is essential for me to attend seminars regularly as they keep up updated on the latest knowledge and best practice in the construction industry. I also read widely and keep tabs on the Singapore government's construction website to keep myself abreast of the regulation changes.

Q8: Based on professional experience, what career advice would you give to aspiring mechanical engineers Ƀ so they can improve themselves?

Whoever you are, whatever you're doing, you need to have the following four elements to succeed.

• You must have competent knowledge in your own field, and keep on learning to be an expert in this field.
• You must have a network of friends, associates, in the same or relevant industry. Keep in contact with them, you'll never know when they will ask you for help or can give you a project.
• You need to maintain sufficient capital, for cash flow and investments.
• You must have down time. You must invest your time in keeping fit, so that you are healthy and able to take on the challenges that you will face. Do not over commit in your personal life, so that you have time for your career.

Q9: What does the phrase 'rest and relax' means to you?

I focus on three key things to 'rest and relax'. I take time for my exercise routine to keep fit. I spend time with my family, over a meal, TV, conversation or even travelling together. Socially, I like to go for karaoke sessions with my friends or even just getting together for a drink and supper.