Transportation is an inextricable part of our lives. Constantly working towards the improvement of our country’s transport services is the Land Transport Authority (LTA). To achieve the efficiency, safety, and reliability of the land transport system, LTA employs talented and passionate people such as Executive Project Engineer, Michelle Goh, and Deputy Manager of Policy, David Tan. They share more on the interesting work they do and the learning opportunities provided to them at LTA to excel in their roles.

Michelle Goh Si Yuan
Executive Project Engineer
Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (Distinction)
National University of Singapore

What is it that you find particularly fulfilling about the work you do?

Michelle: Each MRT construction project presents a unique set of challenges as there are numerous parties involved in its coordination and hence, that generates different challenges. My role as an engineer is to solve these problems, using logical and technical analysis and justifications. It gives me a great sense of achievement each time I am able to come up with solutions to successfully overcome each challenge.

There are many phases in the development of a project which includes tender, design, procurement, manufacturing, installation, among others. We are responsible in ensuring that the requirements for each phase are fulfilled and executed in a safe and efficient manner. As a project progresses, it is akin to watching a baby grow and mature over time.

David: As a policy officer working on the development of future rail lines, I rarely have a dull moment in the office. My job is extremely fast-paced and intellectually stimulating, as I am often required to tackle new tasks and challenges atypical in LTA, similar to how start-ups would function. It is this constant stream of new opportunities and materials to broaden my horizon that I particularly enjoy.

Michelle, tell us about how LTA prioritises innovation in your projects.

There are many initiatives within LTA to promote a safer, better, and more cost-effective working environment. We are constantly on the lookout for the latest technology to apply in our projects. For example, LTA has been working on using Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Unmanned Vehicle Technology to replace the current manual process of MRT and road tunnel inspections. Currently, the process is very labour-intensive as workers are required to physically comb the tunnels. There is also the added obstacle of only being able to do inspections of MRT tunnels at night when the trains are no longer in passenger service. The use of automated technologies will allow us to carry out inspections in a quicker, safer and more accurate manner, giving us more time to focus on other projects.

David Tan Weiyu
Deputy Manager, Policy
Master of Engineering with First Class Honours
Imperial College London

David, share with us the kind of support LTA has given you in terms of learning and career progression.

I believe the most efficient way to learn and grow is through on-the-job experience. I am fortunate enough to have superiors in LTA who believe in me and give me the opportunity to tackle some of the more challenging issues. At the same time, they have also been nurturing and supportive, knowing the right time to provide guidance and assistance, especially during my days as a fresh graduate.

In LTA, there are schemes in place to bolster our career progression, such as possible rotations within and beyond the organisation, further developing our skills and broadening our horizons.

How do you aspire to contribute to the future landscape of Singapore’s transportation industry?

Michelle: As my scope of work includes Mechanical Services (for Air-conditioning Systems, Mechanical Ventilation Fans, Tunnel Ventilation Fans, and Fire Protection Systems), I aspire to equip all stations with fully functional services to provide comfort and safety to all commuters during their daily rides on public transport.

David: With a degree in mechanical engineering and some job experience in policy with a strong focus on financial and commercial issues, I am excited to continue picking up skills and knowledge in these aspects, and contribute to the people of Singapore.