From a young age, Koh Yong Wen was captivated by the mechanics behind everyday appliances and equipment, a fascination sparked by his father, an electrician. This early exposure ignited his interest in electrical engineering, setting him on a path of exploration and growth that ultimately led him to SP Group (SP).

At SP, which operates Singapore’s power grid, Yong Wen plays a vital role in being part of a dedicated team that delivers reliable electricity and gas to over 1.7 million commercial, industrial and residential customers. He reflects on the enriching experiences that have shaped his career in the energy sector.

What sparked your interest in engineering?

I have always been fascinated by the ‘magic’ behind how things function. Be it reading, experimenting, or questioning, I enjoy discovering how things work.

As I used to accompany my father when he carried out electrical installations for his customers, I had many opportunities to observe and experience “A-ha!” moments. This nurturing environment cultivated my interest in engineering, a passion that deepened over the years.

Why did you choose to apply for the SgIS Full-Term Scholarship with SP Group?

Joining the energy sector seemed like a natural progression. SP provides a strong starting point for engineering graduates to hone their skills and gain valuable exposure. The SgIS scholarship also offers financial support for tuition fees and a secure career upon graduation.

Tell us about your role. What aspects of it do you find most challenging and rewarding?

I am currently an Executive Engineer in Electricity Operations, handling maintenance and extra high-voltage power cable repair works. I am one of the first responders to attend to network incidents. I also supervise young cable jointers to strengthen our in-house technical competencies as part of my responsibilities as a mentor.

The most challenging part of my role is its dynamic nature. We need to respond to network incidents in the shortest possible time, which sometimes means sacrifices in our personal lives. However, the impact of our efforts in maintaining network reliability far outweighs these inconveniences. I am proud to be part of the dedicated SP team that works behind the scenes to ensure Singapore’s power network remains one of the most reliable in the world. In fact, last year, a customer in Singapore experienced an average of only 9 seconds of supply interruption.

What would you regard as your most significant project to date?

I was involved in a recent simulation and mobilisation exercise, where we provided round-the-clock operations to test our power restoration preparedness during emergencies. Leading a team of cable jointers, we coordinated closely with other units to set up a mobile electricity substation within a week—an endeavour that would typically require months or years! This experience tested our resolve and strengthened our grit and perseverance.

That’s insightful! How would you describe the work culture at SP Group?

It is characterised by a strong sense of care. Our fieldwork involves multiple site visits, and we constantly look out for each other’s safety. As a young engineer, I benefit from my seniors, who share professional advice and practical safety tips when performing tasks. Our SP PowerGrid CEO advocates employee well-being so we can perform our tasks at an optimal level. Team bonding events, such as jamming sessions with our musically talented colleagues, help build strong camaraderie.

How has SP Group supported your professional growth?

SP offers one of the best learning environments for power systems. In addition to on-the-job training, we have access to structured training courses offered by our in-house training arm, the SP Institute of Power and Gas. There are also regular ‘Tech Talks’ led by in-house experts, who share valuable insights and best practices.

Beyond our regular job roles, we gain exposure to industry events. I participated in an international conference for energy leaders, organised by SP. As a protocol officer at this AESIEAP CEO Conference, I played host to C-level energy leaders attending the three-day event, where I was able to hone my interpersonal and project management skills.

Can you share your experience volunteering with SP Heart Workers?

I served in the SP Heart Workers committee in 2022 and 2023. This is a team of staff from various business units, taking the lead to organise staff volunteer activities throughout the year. It has been fulfilling to meet other like-minded individuals to deliver quality volunteering programmes and bring joy to the beneficiaries of different social service agencies. I cherish the bonds forged with the committee members, and we still get together to reminisce about the good times we shared.

That sounds fulfilling! What advice would you give to those keen on working at SP Group?

Have an open mind and embrace diverse opportunities! Besides ensuring network reliability and strengthening grid resilience, there are exciting developments via inter-grid connectivity, green mobility, and the safe integration of renewables into our energy mix. Take advantage of the sponsorships for master’s programmes, short courses, and Professional Engineering (PE) certification opportunities to broaden your perspective and strengthen your core skills. For young graduates, the Engineering Development for Graduates (EDGE) programme is an excellent avenue to gain an overview of Singapore’s electricity transmission and distribution network, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

The collective effort to uphold our world-class network reliability has been a significant part of my journey at SP. If you’re passionate about exploring power systems across the engineering spectrum and seeking upskilling pathways to meet the evolving demands of the energy industry, SP Group is the place for you!