LTA spearheads Singapore’s transport development, from planning and designing to building and maintaining the infrastructure and systems that keep the nation moving. By harnessing technology and innovation, LTA continues to chart exciting possibilities for the future of land transport.

The LTA Scholarship supports this mission by nurturing future leaders who are passionate about shaping an innovative, sustainable transport industry. Beyond financial support, it offers mentorship, professional growth, and opportunities to contribute directly to projects that transform the way Singapore moves.

Two LTA scholars, Meghan Tan, a student in NTU’s Renaissance Engineering Programme, and Logasan S/O Rajnthern, a Project Engineer in LTA’s Power Supply Division, share how their journeys are guided by a common goal: building smarter, more people-centred transport systems.

What first drew you to engineering?

Meghan: My father works in the IT sector, and I grew up hearing him talk about how programming was a fun challenge that tested problem-solving skills. As someone who enjoys a good challenge, I decided to take computing as an A-Level subject instead of chemistry — a decision I had to convince my parents to support! Those two years taught me that nothing is quite as satisfying as seeing your programme run after hours of fixing bugs. That sense of creation sparked my interest in engineering, where I could use technology to build solutions that make a real impact.

Logasan: Interestingly, engineering wasn’t my first choice. After my O-Levels, I was placed in Electronics, Computer and Communications Engineering at polytechnic — not exactly where I thought I’d end up. But as I progressed, engineering slowly grew on me. I became deeply engaged during lab sessions and projects, and my curiosity for electrical and electronics engineering (EEE) developed rapidly. That was when I knew I wanted to pursue EEE for my higher studies.

Why did you choose the LTA Mid-Term Undergraduate Scholarship?

Meghan: The scholarship aligns with my desire to apply my skills to real-world engineering challenges, whether that’s working on fare systems or contributing to the construction of new MRT lines. Even within LTA, there’s such diversity in the work that I know I’ll always find something aligned with my interests. What excites me most is LTA’s mission, which is to build an innovative, people-centred, and sustainable transport system. This matches my personal goal of improving the lives of others in tangible ways. My work directly impacts the 7.5 million public transport trips made in Singapore every single day.

Logasan: Before university, I hadn’t planned on applying for a scholarship, thinking it wasn’t for me. After 1.5 years at NTU, my interest in EEE grew, and I chose to specialise in Power Engineering. With good academic results, a desire to make a societal impact, and a curiosity for innovation in the power sector, I was motivated to apply for the LTA Mid-Term Undergraduate Scholarship. The scholarship offered a chance to work on projects that directly affect commuters’ journeys while exploring innovations in the rail industry. It also gave me time to decide on my specialisation and build relevant knowledge before the application process.

What difference has the scholarship made in your journey?

Meghan: In the short six months since I received this scholarship, I have already felt very supported by LTA, which has provided me with internship opportunities and mentorship connections. The financial support has also allowed me to spend more time on projects and CCAs, such as working on two MedTech initiatives with my CCA. Without the scholarship, I’d have struggled to balance work and study commitments.

Logasan: For me, receiving the scholarship eased my family’s financial burden and allowed me to focus fully on my studies. It also paved the way for my postgraduate studies in Power Engineering at Imperial College London, a field I’m passionate about.

Give us a glimpse into your work or student life!

Meghan: In NTU’s Renaissance Engineering Programme, I study across disciplines, including engineering, business, and humanities. I specialise in computer engineering because I enjoy working with both hardware and software. I also lead a 50-member CCA that undertakes volunteering and engineering-for-good projects with partners like Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Balancing leadership, academics, and friendships takes planning, but I’ve learnt to protect time for each part of my life.

Logasan: As a Project Engineer in the Power Supply Division, I oversee testing and commissioning (T&C) for high voltage and DC traction systems, ensuring they’re ready for energisation. My day involves coordinating with contractors, reviewing test procedures, and ensuring integration with other systems like signalling and communications. I also take part in tender evaluations and project reporting, which gives me exposure to both the technical and management sides of engineering. What makes this work particularly meaningful is knowing that the systems I help power literally set millions in motion.

Could you tell us about a project or experience that stands out to you?

Meghan: I am fascinated by how Singapore has approached Autonomous Vehicle (AV) implementation. Rather than rushing into deployment, LTA is studying how AVs could be used to solve real problems — like helping with our bus driver shortage — while ensuring these vehicles are safe for everyone on our roads.

Logasan: A defining moment for me was leading the Integrated Testing and Commissioning for East Coast Integrated Depot, East-West Line and Thomson-East Coast Line. I was responsible for coordinating the testing of all control points to ensure full visibility of the power system from the Operations Command Centre. It strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills tremendously.

What opportunities can aspiring scholars look forward to at LTA?

Meghan: At LTA, aspiring scholars don’t just learn — we have the potential to engineer the next generation’s movement. From internships and engagement talks to mentorship opportunities, LTA’s support system ensures scholars like me start shaping our careers early even before graduation. Scholars also have the chance to broaden their horizons through sponsored exchange programmes — something I’m especially excited about next year when I head to the US for my Year 3 exchange.

Logasan: As an LTA Scholar, you will be rotated across different groups and divisions, gaining broad exposure to LTA’s functions and developing into well-rounded leaders. Beyond technical work, scholars are also encouraged to take on roles that build management and leadership skills, including volunteering for Workplan committees or welfare groups, offering opportunities to connect and collaborate with colleagues from diverse technical backgrounds.

Any tips for students who want to make an impact through engineering or public service?

Meghan: They can make a meaningful impact by participating in student projects, hackathons and competitions that address real transport and engineering challenges. For example, LTA and the Intelligent Transportation Systems Society (ITSS) held a joint hackathon earlier in April to address transportation safety. I had taken part in this and was also able to pick up some data analytics skills through my participation. As students, we should actively seek opportunities to stretch ourselves and bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. This can be done through undertaking engineering internships to pick up technical skills and gain industry experience, which will be useful in the workforce.

Logasan: Set your heart in the right place and understand your motivation. If your passion lies in helping the community and creating meaningful change, especially through engineering, go for it! In the long run, this passion will be what carries you through obstacles and challenges. The engineering work you do today, no matter how small, can shape the public’s experience tomorrow.