Celine Chia, Systems Engineer, Systems & Technology Division, GovTech, Singapore

By Medha Basu

Women in GovTech Special Report 2017

What has been the most exciting thing that you worked on in 2017?

My involvement in architecting the data communication layer between sensors and infrastructure in the Smart Lamppost project – which is part of the Smart Nation Sensor Platform that GovTech is developing. I am very excited to be part of this team.

What technology particularly interests you for 2018?

As an engineer, it will have to be the Internet of Things (IoT)! Driven by IoT at their core, I am looking forward to seeing the further development in analytics revolution, edge computing and 5G cell processing.

If you were to share one piece of advice that you learned in 2017, what would it be?

Listen to everyone but do what you consider right.

What was the greatest challenge that you overcame in 2017?

I enjoy solving problems and tackling new challenges. These are things that keep me going. Working in GovTech has exposed me to a lot of new challenges and that helps me to grow mentally and professionally. To pinpoint just one challenge is quite impossible, frankly.

What book did you read in 2017 that most interested or inspired you?

The Inevitable: Understanding the 12 Technological Forces That Will Shape Our Future

This book provides an overview of where the business industry or even the lives of the people are heading. The tech trends were well researched and gives the reader a deeper insight into the continuous evolution of this digital age.

Who inspired you in 2017, and why?

My immediate supervisor, James Tan. As the principal systems engineer, he puts in 100% dedication in whatever he does. He is forward-looking and very considered in his decision-making. I have learnt a lot from James in working together on the design of the smart lamp post architecture.