ST Engineering’s scholarship programme is more than just a stepping stone—it’s a launchpad for aspiring talent eager to make a difference. With exciting opportunities across technology, defence and engineering, scholars can look forward to working with cutting-edge technologies and collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the industry.

We spoke with scholars Chia Jieru, Assistant Vice President of Satcom, and Lim Hua Chong, Assistant Manager in Digital Systems, both recipients of the ST Engineering Scholarship (Overseas). They share about their remarkable scholarship journeys and the meaningful work they’re doing today.

What sparked your passion for engineering?

Jieru: I’ve always been strong in math and science, subjects that felt both engaging and intuitive to me. My fascination with aviation also played a big part, and I even considered becoming a pilot as I was drawn to the mechanics of flight. As I explored different career paths, I realised that engineering offered the perfect blend of my passion for aviation, problem-solving skills and technical thinking. The more I learnt, the more I appreciated how engineering empowers people to design, innovate, and solve real-world challenges.

Hua Chong: For me, engineering isn’t just a field of study—it’s a mindset that shapes how you approach all aspects of life, whether personal or professional.

I followed in the footsteps of my father, who was also a mechanical engineer. He completed his Master’s at Imperial College and began his career at the Chartered Industries of Singapore (CIS), now known as ST Engineering. Even after moving away from technical roles into non-technical managerial positions, he still identifies as an engineer at heart, tackling problems with that systematic, problem-solving mindset. His passion for engineering has always inspired me, and I’ve come to share that same passion over the years.

Hua Chong, what drew you to the ST Engineering Scholarship (Overseas)?

I was already certain that I wanted to pursue engineering during my academic studies. However, I wasn’t sure which specific field to focus on. It was through various open houses and interactions with the ST Engineering team that I was introduced to the wide range of domains ST Engineering covers, from defence platforms and aerospace to smart city solutions and digital systems.

On top of that, I’ve always felt a deep sense of commitment to Singapore’s defence. I wanted to actively contribute to shaping and strengthening our defence ecosystem. ST Engineering’s foundational role in Singapore’s defence and technology sectors made it the perfect place to pursue both my engineering aspirations and my passion for contributing to our nation’s defence.

How has the scholarship shaped your growth, Jieru?

Studying abroad was an eye-opening experience. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded.

On the professional front, the scholarship has opened doors to top-tier education and research opportunities in aeronautical engineering. I’ve learnt from professors who are leaders in the field and collaborated with fellow students on innovative projects. I’ve also gained practical experience through internships and industry connections. These experiences have equipped me with the skills and confidence to tackle complex engineering challenges and make meaningful contributions to the field.

Can you walk us through your current day-to-day responsibilities?

Jieru: I serve as a Strategic Planner for our Satellite Communications business. My role involves monitoring industry trends and competitor activities to identify emerging opportunities and potential risks. I analyse market data and internal performance metrics to provide actionable insights to senior management, helping them make informed strategic decisions.

Hua Chong: As Product Manager for our 5G Products at Advanced Networks & Sensors, Digital Systems, I am responsible for driving both the technical and business development of 5G connectivity products and solutions. I ensure that our solutions meet the needs of our global customers.

As understanding the voice of our customers is critical, I also support our sales and business development teams in engaging with international and local customers, whether through capability demonstrations, trials or overseas exhibitions.

Jieru, you’ve worked on many projects—which one stands out as the highlight for you?

One of the most fulfilling moments was witnessing the successful flight test of the A330 Passenger to Freighter Conversion aircraft. It was a culmination of five years of engineering design and prototype development. Watching the aircraft take off and return successfully was an incredibly memorable and rewarding experience. That moment truly embodied the hard work, collaboration and innovation that went into the project, making it one of the highlights of my career.

Could you share about your diverse roles at ST Engineering and how they have shaped your growth?

Jieru: I began my career as a Mechanical Systems Design Engineer on the A330 Passenger to Freighter Conversion programme, spending one and a half years in Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden, Germany, as an on-site representative for the prototype phase.

Following that, I transitioned to the newly established New Enterprises and Ventures department, where I focused on developing business opportunities in emerging sectors, starting with HealthTech.

I then joined the Group Strategy and Sustainability Office, contributing to various strategic projects across different business units, which broadened my understanding of ST Engineering’s diverse operations beyond Aerospace.

Currently, I lead strategic planning activities for the Satellite Communication business, working with a global team from the US and Europe.

Hua Chong: I began my career at ST Engineering in 2020 as a Robotics Software Engineer in Digital Systems, where I was responsible for developing the intelligence and autonomy stack for advanced robotics applications. Over the years, I was given the opportunity to explore various roles, from a software engineer driving Research and Development on unmanned convoying applications to a software lead responsible for architecting software systems for novel robotic crawler systems.

The most significant opportunity for professional growth came when I was appointed as Programme Manager for a project focused on deploying autonomous robotic assets, forklift platforms, to develop an autonomous logistics distribution system. This role not only presented deep technical challenges but also contributed to my personal development in areas such as project management and systems delivery.

Any advice for students considering the ST Engineering Scholarship, Hua Chong?

ST Engineering provides its scholars with a well-structured rotation programme, offering opportunities to work through various business functions and lines of business. This allows individuals to grow their competencies and experiences through a diverse portfolio of roles. With strong support from ST Engineering and their leaders, scholars will have ample opportunities to further refine their career paths and align their personal and professional goals.