Jonaas Quek, Job-Skills Analyst, SkillsFuture Singapore, Ministry of Education

Joining a government department and building AI bots to streamline workflows would seem like a fun assignment to most. And it certainly has been so for Jonaas Quek, who works as a Job-Skills Analyst in the data team in SkillsFuture Singapore, a statutory board under the Ministry of Education (MOE). 

A passionate believer in the power of good that artificial intelligence (AI) brings to the table, Quek has been working with large language models (LLMs) to help transform the operational processes in his division, leading to his nomination for the Amalgamated Union of Public Employees (AUPE) Transformation Champion’s 2025 award.   

As a part of a series celebrating these transformation champions, GovInsider, in partnership with AUPE, reached out to Quek to find out more about what motivates him and what advice he has for her fellow public sector employees about how they can transform themselves into champions. 

Which agency do you work for and in what capacity?  

I work for SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) as a Jobs-Skills Analyst in the data team. SkillsFuture is a statutory board under the Ministry of Education (MOE) which is responsible for coordinating and implementing the SkillsFuture national movement. 

Can you describe what your job responsibilities are and what you do?  

As a Jobs-Skills Analyst at SSG, my primary responsibility is to utilise big data to draw meaningful insights into the jobs and skills ecosystem. I analyse data to identify skills gaps, emerging job opportunities, and the evolving demands of industries. This helps in supporting Singaporeans in making informed decisions about their lifelong learning journey. 

What new skills have you picked up?  

Recently, I've picked up skills in advanced data analytics, machine learning (ML), and data visualisation tools and of course, prompt engineering. These skills allow me to process and analyse large datasets more effectively and communicate findings in an insightful and impactful way. 

You have been nominated as a champion because you were not afraid to embrace change. Can you describe your journey?  

I joined the division only last year and with a fresh perspective, I was able to drive new ideas so as to operate more efficiently and productively. Change is difficult and of course, there will be resistance but if we are able to help others see the value proposition of change, I believe they will hop onto the bandwagon over time and support such change initiatives. 

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How have the new skills that you picked improved your productivity?  

The new skills have improved my productivity by enabling me to automate repetitive tasks, enhance data accuracy, and provide deeper insights more quickly. ML tools, for example, have allowed me to develop predictive models that offer foresight into future job market trends. 

Has this also helped your colleagues in their work as well?  

Absolutely. By sharing insights and training on new data techniques with colleagues, we've collectively enhanced our analytical capabilities. This has led to more collaborative and efficient work processes, enabling us to produce comprehensive reports with greater accuracy and efficiency. 

How has your productivity improved since you joined the workforce? 

Since joining, my productivity has increased significantly. The use of cutting-edge data tools and analytical techniques has streamlined my workflow, reduced manual data processing, and allowed for more time dedicated to strategic analysis and collaboration.  

Since we are in the age of lifelong learning can you share what are the new skills that you wish to acquire in 2025?  

In 2025, I aim to deepen my knowledge in AI and LLMs, as these technologies offer transformative potential in data analytics. I believe mastery in such areas will equip me to better serve the needs of SSG as well as Singaporeans. 

How has the government/your organisation helped you to acquire new skill sets?  

SSG has been instrumental in my skill development by providing access to training programmes, workshops, and courses. These opportunities have enabled continuous learning and upskilling, aligned with the latest technological and industry advancements. For example, I was privileged to attend GovTech’s AI boot camp which equipped me with skill sets in the usage of LLMs in analytics.  

What message would you want to give to your colleagues so that they can also upgrade themselves? 

Upskilling reduces workload by enhancing efficiency and productivity, as new skills empower you to streamline tasks and tackle challenges more effectively, ultimately making work easier and more manageable. 

Do you have a motivational quote that you believe strongly in?  

One quote I strongly believe in is by Albert Einstein: "Once you stop learning, you start dying." Continuous learning is the key to personal and professional growth, especially in an ever-evolving job market. 

How comfortable are you with integrating new technologies into your daily work?  

I am very comfortable integrating new technologies, as they are pivotal in enhancing our work and outcomes. Keeping an open mind and being proactive in learning new tools has made the transition smooth and beneficial. Also, talk to colleagues within and outside of your agency, you never know who has a tool that can change your life! 

What motivated you to learn skills outside of your comfort zone and why would you recommend others to upskill and upgrade?  

My primary motivation is to maximise efficiency so that the time saved can be used to accomplish more both at work and in my personal life, with the lifelong knowledge gained allowing me to continually add value wherever I am. 

How did you feel about being selected as an AUPE Transformation Champion?  

Being selected as an AUPE Transformation Champion is a great honour. It validates my efforts in driving positive change and encourages me to continue advocating for skill development and embracing innovation within my team and organisation. I hope to encourage other colleagues that you need not be a team leader to innovate and make changes to your work environment.