Daniel Ong
Young Graduate Presented With Challenges
Manager
Why did you decide to join HSL?
Visiting the HSL booth at the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Career Fair 2008 was the first prelude to life in the company. Being an Environmental Engineering undergraduate, I was deeply impressed with the company’s sustainable operations. Subsequent interviews convinced me that countless challenges as well as opportunities are on offer towards construction of marine structures in an environmentally sustainable way. Upon graduation, I took up the Management Associate program, which provides width of exposure via rotation of duties in different functions of the company.
What was your initial involvement in HSL?
My first involvement was the construction of a chemical jetty in an offshore island in Singapore. Taking on the role of Project Engineer in the largest scale project HSL had ever handled at that time, I was actively involved from the planning stage to the construction phase till successful completion and handover. The countless hours spent onsite, which was the heart of all activities, allowed me to hone my engineering judgment and apply my common sense in various situations. More importantly, it develops my interpersonal skills which are pivotal to success in future management.
What keeps you moving?
Challenges and changes are part and parcel of working in a fast paced environment like marine construction. With some of the industry’s most experienced professionals, I’m able to draw on their vast knowledge and wisdom. At the end of the day, you feel a great sense of satisfaction and achievement when challenges are embraced and overcome.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, I am managing a project involving the installation of an anchor mooring system. As this is the first time such a project has been embarked on Singapore shores, new challenges emerge and that’s where my learning path continues. Learning is a journey, not a destination. Graduation is just a new beginning and I’m thankful that I am in an organization where challenges lead to self actualization.