In our fast-paced metropolis, it is easy to overlook the privilege of travelling on reliable transport. Commuters can expect to be taken to their desired destination once they hop onto a bus or train, and taken there they will be. This expectation would never have been formed without the accomplishments of the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

As a people-centred transport system, LTA strives to enhance the travel experience for all. Its extensive transportation network means that key destinations are within walking distance from a bus stop or Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station. Furthermore, our buses and trains are accessible to wheelchair users, families with push-strollers and the visually-impaired, ensuring an inclusive transport system for the people.

Behind the organisation is a team of individuals who desire to meet diverse transport needs and shape our future transport system. Two of them are Senior Engineer Wee Kim Hwee and Deputy Manager Zhan Yayun. They tell us about their key roles and LTA’s work culture, and share some advice to those who wish to join them.

What sparked your interest in a career with LTA?

Wee Kim Hwee: I had always wanted a career that would give me the opportunity to serve the community. Joining the Public Service was thus the most straightforward way. During my University days, I found that I enjoyed my transport engineering modules, and I wanted to build on this interest by improving the transport experience of people. LTA was then the most obvious career choice.

Zhan Yayun
Deputy Manager

Bachelor of Computing,
National University of Singapore

Zhan Yayun: When I was in university, I came across LTA’s IT projects through the case studies featured in my modules. Through one of my case studies about OneMotoring, I came to know about LTA’s pioneering effort in integrated e-services. Later on, when I saw LTA’s job advertisement in the newspaper, I decided to apply to join LTA’s Innovation & InfoComm Group.

Tell us about your respective responsibilities.

Kim Hwee: I am the engineer in charge of the management and maintenance of roads and transport infrastructure in Singapore’s North-Western region. My roles include ensuring the proper upkeep of road assets under my care to fulfil the safety of road users. In line with this role, I administer term maintenance and inspection contracts to ensure that our roads and transport infrastructure are inspected, and identified defects are rectified in a timely manner. I am also actively involved in planning maintenance works and progammes as part of our preventive maintenance regime, in order to ensure proper performance of assets throughout their life cycle.

Yayun: Currently, my division leads the Data Strategy Programme. I assist the Deputy Director in driving an effective data management programme based on the LTA Data Management Policy and Framework. We also support the development of data sources for the co-creation of innovative solutions and services that deliver a people-centred system and meet diverse needs.

Tell us about a key project that has had your involvement.

Kim Hwee: My current project involves the replacement of mild steel railings with aluminium railings. The existing mild steel railings are repainted on a yearly basis to alleviate the problem of corrosion, and my current project came about with the objective to do away with the need for regular repainting of the railings. This would then result in lesser reliance on foreign manpower to carry out yearly painting works island-wide and lower recurrent costs. It would also eliminate the need for land closures and minimise disruptions for motorists.

This project made me realise that maintenance is so much more than just performing regular duties on a daily basis – it is also about constantly reviewing the way these jobs are performed, and improving work processes to ensure that they are done in a more sustainable manner.

Yayun: In April 2015, LTA organised a Transport & You(th) Hackathon to co-create innovative land transport solutions with youths and students. More than 180 youths took part in the Hackathon to design transport apps that will enhance commuter travel experience through use of technology. It was a memorable experience for me to be with the young tech enthusiasts for a few days of fun competition.

This hackathon was also very special and meaningful as we invited user ambassadors with special needs to share about their challenges in their daily commute. With a deeper understanding, participants worked on the land transport datasets provided by [email protected] and designed innovative apps to enhance the overall public transport experience as well as ease the commute forthose with special needs.

Give us a feel of LTA’s work culture.

Kim Hwee: LTA consists of a good mix of people with varying backgrounds. Our veterans are always willing to guide new staff as they integrate within the organisation, by actively sharing their rich work experiences. LTA also advocates a work-life balance – its flexi-work practice is a huge plus for professionals with children, as they are able to better balance work and family matters. While we work very hard to achieve our goals, we also have time for our families and to take care of their needs.

Yayun: LTA has an energetic work environment and a goal-oriented culture. Our work can be challenging and demanding, but there is great team spirit and people help one another achieve goals. I’ve also built good relationships with colleagues since I started working here and I am grateful for that.

I was able to work on Estimation Theory, applications which include target tracking and navigation. My internship project also challenged me to be resourceful, think analytically and learn on-the-job. These are essential skills required in the R&D work I conduct today as our work involves breaking new ground and charting unknown territory.

What advice do you have for those looking to pursue a career in LTA?

Kim Hwee: Fresh graduates looking to join LTA should be willing to take up challenges and believe in their ability to make a difference to land transport matters in Singapore. Most importantly, they should be humble and always ready to acquire new knowledge related to the field that they are in. They should also be proactive and talk to existing staff at LTA – the best way to grow and improve is by learning from issues and solutions by experienced officers.

Yayun: One should learn fast and be creative in order to adapt to the work environment and develop innovative solutions. It is also important to be a team player with strong communication and interpersonal skills. In addition, adopt a positive mindset at all times – this will keep you and your colleagues ever-motivated and on the right track.