Every naval vessel relies on hundreds of systems working together seamlessly. As a Principal Engineer in ST Engineering's naval shipbuilding and repair business, Alvin Koh helps bring these complex systems together, ensuring ships are mission-ready for operations at sea.
Q: What’s a typical day at work for you?
I lead a team of engineers through the full integration lifecycle, from design and system interfacing to testing and troubleshooting. We validate our work during harbour and sea trials, where we see the ship’s systems operating together under real-world conditions. I also oversee the integration of critical onboard systems, ensuring information flows smoothly between different platforms and that everything works reliably as a single, cohesive vessel.
Q: How has technology changed the way ships are designed and built?
3D modelling has transformed the way we build ships. Instead of working from separate drawings, engineers across different disciplines collaborate on the same digital model of the vessel. This shared environment helps us identify issues earlier, improve coordination and make better decisions before construction begins, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency.
Q: How did your Master's programme change the way you think about engineering?
I was fortunate to pursue a Master of Defence Technology and Systems (MDTS), sponsored by ST Engineering. The programme broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of systems engineering and defence technologies. It taught me to look beyond individual components and think about how entire systems interact and perform together, an approach that is especially valuable when working on complex naval platforms.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I never expected to develop a love for hiking, but it started during my overseas Master’s programme. Since then, it has become something I really enjoy. Hiking has taught me the value of preparation, endurance and taking one step at a time, qualities that are equally important when managing complex engineering projects. In Singapore, my favourite trails are Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and MacRitchie Reservoir.
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