As Singapore’s national grid operator, SP Group (SP) delivers electricity to over 1.7 million homes, businesses, and industries through one of the world’s most reliable and efficient electricity and gas networks. With Singapore gearing up for a sustainable future, a resilient power infrastructure will continue to drive our nation’s future development. At the heart of this reliability are dedicated individuals like SP Mid-Term Scholars Winnie Teo Jia Ying and James Tor Xin Da, who are shaping the country’s energy future through innovative thinking and hands-on problem-solving.

We caught up with them to explore how their engineering passion is shaping their careers.

Winnie, was there a moment when you realised that engineering was the right path for you?

Growing up, I always enjoyed solving problems and seeing things come together in real time. It wasn’t just about finding the right answers; I loved the entire process. In polytechnic, I was encouraged to take up engineering by one of my lecturers. I still remember how unique it felt to be in a lecture hall filled mostly with male classmates. During a practical session, I was filled with pride when I soldered a circuit and it actually worked! This was a turning point for me, and from then on, that thrill of trial and error and the satisfaction of seeing everything fall into place made me realise I had found something I could build a future around. While females remain a minority in the engineering field, we continue to contribute meaningfully and lead, and I hope this inspires the next generation of women in STEM.

James, what made the SP Mid-Term Scholarship the right fit for you, and how has it helped you grow?

I’ve always aspired to have a meaningful career that creates a positive impact in the world we live in. The scholarship offered me a full-time career with SP and the opportunity to be part of a team solving practical challenges and exploring new technologies to address them. It aligned perfectly with my goals to play a part in making Singapore a better home for all, where our electricity and gas drives networks are a key engine powering the way we live, work and play.

The SP Mid-Term Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship recognised within the engineering and energy industry. Beyond financial support and a full-time career opportunity upon graduation, it offers a customised and structured development programme for scholars, allowing us to learn and grow, and be equipped with the necessary skill sets for the job.

I have benefitted greatly from the programme, applying theory to real-life scenarios and gaining hands-on experience that has prepared me well for my role as both an engineer and a future leader.

Fast forward to today, what’s a typical day like in your roles?

Winnie: I work in the Distribution Projects team at SP. The distribution network carries electricity from more than 12,000 SP substations to our homes, offices and industries. Our responsibilities include renewing ageing assets within the network, such as switchgears, transformers and cables, to essentially keep the lights on for Singapore. Every renewal project comes with its unique set of challenges, and a chance to learn. Leading a team, you have to coordinate closely with engineers and contractors, make judgment calls on the spot, and think creatively when the situation calls for it. I enjoy how it’s fast-paced and keeps you sharp!

James: I am currently a Senior Engineer in Gas Operations, overseeing the repair and maintenance of gas distribution pipelines in the eastern region of Singapore. Centered upon project management, my key responsibility is to ensure successful delivery on timelines and budget. At SP, safety is our highest priority, with strict protocols to adhere to when working with hazardous gases. On site, we work closely with contractors to uphold safe practices and ensure the safety of those around us. There is also a lot of coordination and engagement required within and outside of our team, so that everyone gets home safe at the end of the day.

James, how do you lead your team and keep things on track, especially when challenges come up?

Different team members bring with them unique sets of knowledge, experience, and skills. Leading a team of technical crew, what I find most fulfilling is uncovering new insights and perspectives through discussions with my team and overseeing their growth and development. There were times when experienced technicians suggested simple yet creative solutions to problems which I wouldn’t have thought of on my own. Hence, I believe it’s critical to stay open and receptive to ideas from the ground.

Winnie, what’s it like being a part of the SP Heart Workers initiative?

SP Group’s staff volunteers are known as SP Heart Workers. Being part of the committee that organises a year-round calendar of volunteering activities for all of SP’s business units was one of the most meaningful things I’ve accomplished. I joined the committee in 2022 and had the opportunity to work with colleagues from different departments. What struck me most was how everyone contributed their time and skills to bring smiles to the faces of our beneficiaries, including seniors, youths, and young children. It reminded me that the impact we make can go beyond the workplace.

How has SP supported you in developing your professional capabilities, James?

I went through SP Group’s Engineering Development for Graduates Programme (EDGE), a structured training programme which comprises a series of e-learning, classroom and on-the job trainings to accelerate our development across various functions. Additionally, I was fortunate to represent the company on a visit to equipment manufacturers in the UK, where I gained valuable exposure and had the opportunity to share our site challenges in Singapore with our UK counterparts.

Finally, what advice do you have for those keen on joining SP?

Winnie: If you’re self-driven and eager to join the dynamic energy industry, there’s so much here for you. From formal training to real-world exposure, every day is a new opportunity to make an impact. Along the way, you’ll find mentors and gain experiences that will shape who you’re meant to become.

James: Consider applying for an internship with SP to experience how our staff maintain grid resilience and supply reliability for our electricity and gas networks. You might be surprised by the work that goes on behind the scenes to uphold our world-class grids!