Q1. What inspired you to pursue civil engineering, and what continues to drive you at this stage?
I’ve always liked the idea of making things work behind the scenes. 15 years in, and I’m still driven by that “lightbulb moment”—usually when we finally figure out how to squeeze a massive water pipe into a space that’s already crowded with cables. It’s like a high-stakes game of Tetris, and winning that game still feels great.
Q2. What experiences have influenced you the most in your engineering career so far?
Navigating the authority submission process has been incredibly influential. It taught me that engineering isn’t just about calculations; it’s about communication. Learning how to translate complex technical designs into something that regulators, clients, and stakeholders can approve and support has changed how I approach design from day one.
Q3. Which project has been most meaningful to you, and why?
MRT Line 2 is the most meaningful project to me throughout my entire career. Utilities relocation is often the biggest headache in a project like this, so getting the drainage and services re-routed without blowing the schedule is a huge win. It’s meaningful because if we get it right, the public never notices—and that’s exactly how good infrastructure should be.
Q4. What has been one significant challenge in your career, and how did it shape your leadership approach?
One significant challenge has been managing last-minute design changes while facing strict submission deadlines. You’ve got a frozen design, and suddenly an architect or a structural lead moves a pier. It’s taught me to be a “shield” for my team. My leadership style now is all about clear boundaries: I’ll handle the tough conversations with management and authorities so my team can focus on getting the technical work done right.
Q5. How do you balance technical excellence with managing people and project expectations?
It’s a constant juggle. I’ve learned to stop trying to do everything myself. I set the “gold standard” for the technical side, but I trust my team to run with it. My job now is more about managing the “vibe” of the project and making sure the client’s expectations don’t crash into my team’s reality.
Q6. What does being a civil engineer mean to you today?
It means being the person who makes sure the city doesn’t stop. We’re the ones making sure the water flows, the roads don’t flood, and the trains have a place to go. It’s less about the glory and more about the grit of making a city liveable.
Q7. How do you see engineering contributing to stronger and more resilient communities?
In my world of drainage and utilities, resilience means one thing: redundancy. We design systems that can handle the “what ifs”—the record-breaking storms or the sudden population booms. If we do our jobs well, the community stays safe and dry, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Q8. How has mentorship — both giving and receiving — influenced you?
I’ve had some great leads who taught me how to navigate the “red tape” without losing my mind. Now, I’m passing that on. Teaching a junior how to handle a difficult officer or how to cross-check an Xref isn’t just a task; it’s making sure the industry stays in good hands.
Q9. What advice would you give to young engineers, especially women?
Don’t be intimidated by the “loudest” person in the room. In 15 years, I’ve learned that the person who knows their stand is the one who actually holds the power. For the women coming up: be firm, know your stuff, and don’t be afraid to get your boots dirty. Your perspective is your secret weapon.
Q10. Outside of work, what keeps you inspired and energised?
Staying active and spending quality time with my family is what keeps me grounded. I love diving into sports or just unwinding at home; it’s the best way to completely switch off my ‘engineer brain,’ de-stress, and recharge for the week ahead.
