In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, sophisticated technological deterrents are crucial for our nation’s assured safety. The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) play a critical role in developing technological advancements within the defence space.

As a manager in the Corporate Development Directorate in MINDEF, Defence Merit Scholar Tan Si Min, Lynn plays a role in circumventing resource constraints through innovative technological aid, cementing MINDEF’s robust defence capabilities.

A Unique Path

Lynn’s work is undoubtedly integral to the country’s defence efforts, but her interest in this career path didn’t fully materialise until she witnessed her peers enlist for National Service. “It was the first time I actively thought about Singapore’s defence, and it was from there that I started gaining a deeper appreciation for its importance,” she recounted. “It inspired my desire to contribute to the defence of Singapore, and so I decided to embark on a career in MINDEF.”

From there, it was only a matter of applying for the Defence Merit Scholarship with MINDEF to embark on an education that would bolster her career when the time came.

Exploring the Intersection Between Psychology and Defence

Lynn has always found herself fascinated with human behaviour, which ultimately led her to pursue her interest in psychology for her undergraduate studies at the National University of Singapore. “As I progressed through my studies, I became more interested in a more specialised area of psychology which focuses on understanding and providing mental and behavioural care for individuals,” she said. Thus, she also completed her Master of Science in Mental Health Studies overseas at King’s College London.

Her various attachments with MINDEF also allowed her to be in frequent contact with supervisors who had a similar background in psychology. “I found this helpful in contextualising my academic learnings at the workplace,” she said.

Her education in psychology became pertinent when she joined the Defence Psychology Department of MINDEF and proved invaluable in teaching her to be critical and data-driven in her thinking. “I was involved in several MINDEF/SAF-wide studies that required me to apply my knowledge of psychological principles and statistical and research skills.”

The benefits she reaped through the scholarship went beyond being purely academic or financial in nature. She fondly remembers receiving consistent support and regular engagement from people in the organisation throughout her education. “We received invitations to informal gatherings and to sessions with MINDEF management,” she shared.

Lynn also cited her experience with the MINDEF Scholarship Centre (MSC) after the outbreak of the novel COVID-19 outbreak as evidence of their dedication. “As the outbreak coincided with my Master of Science in Mental Health Studies programme at King’s College London, MSC engaged us very promptly and efficiently to ensure our safe return to Singapore,” she elaborated.

MSC forges close partnerships with scholars like Lynn to ensure they are assigned attachments that would provide them with invaluable work experience and also allowed her to be in frequent contact with supervisors who had a similar background in psychology.

“I found this helpful in contextualising my academic learnings at the workplace,” she said. Lynn also expressed that “this provided us with a better understanding of the opportunities within MINDEF, which set us up well to make more informed decisions when selecting our first posting upon returning from our studies.”

Thriving in a Culture of Innovation and Growth

Today, her role in MINDEF’s Transformation and Innovation Department entails the development of an employee-facing policy platform, which will drive the adoption of Whole-of-Government (WOG) products within MINDEF/SAF. She is also in charge of identifying and resolving impediments within the digital ecosystem.

The work Lynn and her colleagues do is crucial to the very fabric of our digital defences – something she finds incredibly meaningful. “My work ensures that MINDEF/SAF keeps pace with ever-changing technological advances,” she said.“This helps us stay relevant and ahead of the game and to combat resource constraints through efficient and smart use of technology.”

Fortunately, the organisation enables her to put her best foot forward thanks to its inclusive, nurturing, and welcoming culture. “There are many opportunities available, and employees are encouraged to seek out various types of roles without the requirement of prior experience.” Lynn believes that in doing so, MINDEF can cultivate an environment where employees gain a holistic set of skills and grow into well-round professionals – an environment from which Lynn herself has greatly benefited.

Lynn acknowledges that her current position within the Transformation and Innovation Department is just the beginning of her journey. She eagerly anticipates continuous growth, honing a diverse range of cross-domain skills that will remain relevant in the years ahead “Fundamentally, I also hope to make an impact on the defence of Singapore,” she concluded.

With the myriad opportunities presented across a multitude of domains in MINDEF, Lynn maintains that the organisation is ideal for those seeking a chance to reach their fullest potential.

Her parting advice to those who are willing to take the leap into this commendable line of work; “Truly identify with and invest in the defence of Singapore, as this will serve as a constant source of motivation and purpose throughout your career.”