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A senior engineer at JTC's Civil & Structural Engineering Department, Winnie Chu is part of the team that is bringing Punggol Digital District (PDD) to life. “I’m most excited to witness the dynamic synergy that will form between the industrialists and students at PDD, where they can push the boundaries of cutting-edge technology,” she says of the potential the 50-hectare smart and sustainable district will bring.
Technology is changing how we work, and that includes the field of engineering too. The traditional stereotype of the construction industry as being physical and labour intensive has evolved significantly. “It has created more opportunities for women to excel in these fields and a more inclusive environment for all to thrive,” she adds.
No two days are the same for Winnie.
What field of engineering do you specialise in and why did you choose it?
I chose to specialise in Civil Engineering because it allows me to bring visionary concepts to life by designing megastructures from scratch, directly benefiting people from all walks of life and the environment. This field enables me to make a tangible difference in the world by creating infrastructure that serves and benefits communities.
What characteristics make a good engineer?
A good engineer possesses the ability to embrace change and remain open-minded. In today’s rapidly evolving industry, it is crucial to be open to new challenges and strive for innovative solutions to effectively navigate the dynamic landscape of engineering.
Winnie was involved in several build projects, the latest being Punggol Digital District.
What’s a memorable project that you’ve worked on at JTC?
JTC aeroSpace Three at Seletar Aerospace Park stands out as the detailed design and project management were fully handled by our internal project team. It was a remarkable experience to come together as a team with a common goal and eventually successfully deliver the project despite the various challenges the team faced, such as very tight timelines and a shortage of labour during the pandemic period. Overcoming these obstacles as a cohesive team made the project particularly memorable and rewarding.
Do you have any advice for women who are considering to study engineering?
Don’t underestimate your capacity and be bound by the stereotype of the male-dominated engineering industry. Your passion, skills, and dedication are what truly matter. Embrace the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on society in this dynamic and rewarding field.
Is there a historical figure you look up to?
I admire Marie Curie. She was the first woman to be awarded a Nobel Prize. Despite numerous obstacles in a male-dominated scientific field back then, her unwavering perseverance and boundless curiosity led her to make remarkable achievements in science, which continue to benefit humanity to this day. Her story serves as a constant reminder for me to be resilient and never give up when dealing with any challenges.