For Russell Yip, Deputy Manager (Airspace Policy) at CAAS, no two days are alike. In his time at CAAS, he has taken on a variety of roles including airport planning and development, airport service regulation and airspace policy. Gaining invaluable insights into the work that CAAS does, the experience has further driven his passion for aviation and desire to contribute meaningfully to the aviation sector.

We chatted with Russell to learn more about his journey as a CAAS scholar and what it is like to work at CAAS.

What made you apply for the CAAS Overseas Undergraduate Scholarship?

I discovered the scholarship while browsing through BrightSparks. I have always had an interest in aviation and the airport, having been an avid visitor of Changi Airport’s Terminal 2 Viewing Gallery since I was young. I saw the CAAS Scholarship as an opportunity for me to kickstart a career in the growing aviation sector, which CAAS plays an important role in developing. Moreover, I also wanted to fulfil my aspiration to study abroad. This made applying for the scholarship an easy choice for me!

How did the scholarship contribute to both your academic pursuits and professional development?

The scholarship provided a comprehensive range of support throughout my entire undergraduate studies, including tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and other miscellaneous expenses. This provided me peace of mind to embark on an exciting and fruitful academic journey at Tufts University.

Scholars also have access to internship opportunities during the summer breaks. During my internship at CAAS, I was attached to the Airport Development and Planning Division, I was involved in a project on energy efficiency at Changi Airport. The internship gave me invaluable exposure and insight into the work of CAAS and the wider public service.

How did your studies prepare you for working in CAAS?

Studying economics has equipped me with analytical and critical thinking skills that are crucial for policy officers, including those in the airspace domain. It has taught me to leave no stone unturned in my work. Just as economists might compare the trade-offs associated with introducing a new tax policy, airspace policy decisions also involve trade-offs. Policy officers must weigh the costs and benefits carefully to ensure the best outcomes for Singapore.

Tell us more about your current role

I currently deal with a broad range of airspace policy matters. Our team works hard to unpack and analyse them to facilitate decision-making by our management and senior government officials. Working at CAAS gives me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to ensure safer and more efficient traffic flows in the skies, which is an important enabler for Singapore’s success as an air hub. The work is challenging, broad-ranging and fast-paced, which provides me with the opportunities to hone my skills in policy development.

What skills or qualities do you believe are essential for policymaking?

Critical thinking and communication skills, as well as being able to collaborate closely with key internal stakeholders including operational teams and management, are essential to ensuring that the policies we develop can be communicated, implemented and operationalised effectively.

It is also important to be able to anticipate and adapt to unforeseen situations and challenges, especially in the aviation sector where no two days are the same.

What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is being able to interact with and learn from experienced and helpful colleagues in CAAS. I now have a greater appreciation for the important work that CAAS does to ensure that air traffic flows are safe and efficient for airspace users as well as the success of our air hub.

Could you tell me more about life in CAAS?

Apart from work, there is a wide range of recreational activities that CAAS officers can get involved in. As an avid singer and member of the jamming activity interest group, I often find myself jamming with my fellow music-loving colleagues in the recreation club’s music room. I was also given the opportunity to lead the 2023 CAAS Dinner and Dance organising committee, which was a truly fun, memorable and enriching experience.

Lastly, what possibilities exist for officers working at CAAS?

CAAS provides the opportunity for its staff to achieve their career aspirations, whether it is through self-development, overseas work experience, or making a lasting impact nationally and on the world stage.

CAAS is also a world unto itself – you can explore careers in a broad range of areas, including in airport planning, sustainability, safety regulation, air traffic management, international relations, and all under the same roof. At CAAS, the world is your oyster!