Civil Engineering Undergraduate Programmes

I aspire to change the perception of the Built Environment sector and inject a fresh perspective for our future engineers. This sector is undergoing transformation and without the human factor, no amount of new technologies and digital revolutions will ensure its success. I hope to have the opportunity to shape the future direction and help young engineers navigate the early years of their career in this sector. As the Production Planning Engineer at Soilbuild’s Integrated Construction and Prefabrication Hub  (ICPH), my main responsibilities include managing the integrated Enterprise Resource Planning system. The system drives various automation processes including the development and integration of emerging cutting-edge technologies to boost precast production efficiency and productivity. I am also involved in other facets of the business including research and development initiatives in advanced Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) solutions and sustainable green materials,  tender and project feasibility discussions, and strategic communications with industry partners,  government agencies and Institutes of Higher Learning. The transformation journey is challenging but an exciting one. Aspiring engineers should have an open mind and ride on the current wave of transformation to discover new opportunities that will provide them with a meaningful and rewarding career. Be aware that knowledge learnt from the classroom is very different from skills needed in an actual work environment. Strive to be a leader in your own capacity and be the catalyst for change. The industry does not need another engineer who simply works 9 to 5, it needs an engineer who can also think like a doctor, banker, lawyer, and analyst. This role provided me with hands-on experiences that covered many aspects of the Built Environment sector. Through interaction and collaboration with different stakeholders, I am exposed to a wide array of knowledge which cannot be learnt in a classroom. My work experiences have helped me better understand the industry as a whole, and in particular, how current practices in construction and prefabrication works can be improved. The steep learning curve is something that I have embraced positively and this mindset has helped develop me both as an engineer and as a leader. With the sector undergoing transformation and with fresh blood coming in with new perspectives, one needs to be mindful when working with seasoned colleagues who may be used to more conventional approaches. My advice is to always stay humble and courteous, and to always think of the bigger picture. Recognise the importance of teamwork. As with many other industries, managing good relationships with colleagues and business partners is important and will require one to have a sense of maturity and tenacity.

Thng Xiong Jie Terence (Bachelor of Civil Engineering, Class of 2020)

I am currently a Structural Engineer in DP Engineers Pte Ltd, an engineering consultancy firm. My role is to undertake structural analysis, calculations and prepare design sketches and drawings indicating the design intent for building projects. This includes ensuring that the design intent meet the relevant design codes, requirements, regulations, and client’s expectations.  My job also requires me to prepare the technical reports documenting the analysis and design results for authority submissions and subsequent correspondences.

As a design consultant, I work with different stakeholders (e.g., architects, mechanical and electrical engineers, contractors, etc.) to ensure a well-coordinated, smooth and safe delivery of project to the client. My job is satisfying as I get to see my design turns into reality on the ground where people get to work, study and live in. It is a rewarding job knowing that I can play a part in shaping the landscape of Singapore.

NTU Civil Engineering programme covers a wide range of civil engineering fields, ranging from Structural Engineering to Geotechnical Engineering, to Transportation Engineering and Environmental Engineering.  This allows graduates to embark into their interested field of civil engineering upon graduation. The contents covered in NTU Civil Engineering are practical and relevant to the real-life applications. I get to apply the knowledge and skills that I have acquired into practical uses in my job as a design engineer.

The best memories of my time in NTU Civil Engineering would be the friendships that I have made at NTU. The times where we studied and worked on projects together, to joining various activities to have fun in. Even after we have graduated and joined various sectors of the Built Environment industry (e.g., government agencies, developers, consultants, contractors), we remain in close contact with each other.

To potential applicants, a career in the Built Environment Industry is not dull but exciting and fulfilling. Do reach out to the professors, staffs, and seniors in NTU CEE to find out more about the course. To existing students, never stop learning and continue to expand your knowledge and skills through various avenues such as internships, seminar events, workshops, and webinars. See you around in the Built Environment industry!