Jessica Or Pui-ying was so impressed by CLP Engineering’s multi-discipline development in engineering and green-energy promotion that she joined the firm as an engineer trainee. She tells Wong Yat-hei that by serving in the field of engineering, she hopes she can contribute to a better society.
What is your study background?
I have both a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in electronic engineering from the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
What’s an average day like?
I don’t have a routine schedule. There are challenges every day but the good thing is you never get bored. Generally, I have to equip myself with knowledge of our business through being involved in different projects. Tender bids, systems design, site supervision and meeting with clients make up most of my work.
What does your job entail?
I am undergoing a two-year “Scheme A” training programme provided by my company from which I gain well-rounded training by rotating between various departments. It is absolutely eye-opening for a fresh graduate to be involved in such a large amount of projects. For one project, I was attached to the power-engineering branch for projects including power-network construction for better electricity supplies and fault analysis during blackouts. It was very interesting to see how electricity is supplied 24/7 to every household in the city.
I have also been responsible for the maintenance of several systems at the airport, as well as providing one-stop services on renewable-energy consultation and installation for various buildings in the city.
Currently I am working on the communication system design of the MTR Corporation’s West Island Line and Kwun Tong Extension Line.
What are the major challenges you’ve encountered so far?
One would be closing the gap between the engineering I learnt at school and what I am learning during work. At school we learn theories and always had a definite answer for every problem. At work I am involved in real-life situations where I often go to sites to study what is really going on and learn from more experienced seniors.
What are your plans for the future?
I need another two years of relevant experience after the training programme to gain chartership, which is the professional identity of an engineer. I will work hard towards this goal.
What advice do you have for those who want to enter the industry?
Different personalities suit different industries. If you are an outgoing person who hates sitting in the office from nine to five, engineering could be a good career option for you. I am certain that the government’s 10 major infrastructure projects will bring opportunities and prosperity to industry newcomers.
