How acquiring tech competencies paved the way for new careers

For these three go-getters, reskilling was their first move into tech-empowered roles.

A tech-related tip on boosting efficiency led Mr Ng Zhi Hao Matchy to embark on a tech-oriented learning journey of his own – with the goal of advancing his career within the field of human resources (HR).

At the time, he was a HR executive in the manufacturing industry, handling tasks like payroll, absentee processing, expatriate management and data entry.

“A colleague from the IT department shared how macros – a recorded sequence of commands – could do the same work but with greater speed and efficiency,” recounted the 40-year-old. “I decided to explore using macros and created a program to carry out my daily tasks, which my colleagues found useful as well.”

This experience fuelled Mr Ng’s aspiration to become a HR information systems (HRIS) specialist, dedicated to leveraging technology for the automation and optimisation of HR-related operational functions. In pursuit of this objective, he enrolled in data analytics, data visualisation and Python programming courses at NTUC LearningHub, a continuing education and training provider in Singapore.

NTUC LearningHub’s technology courses are delivered in collaboration with over 50 best-in-class content providers, ensuring their workplace relevance. The training provider has also partnered the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) to expand the national reskilling and upskilling initiatives in the domains of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, analytics, software engineering, and cloud and mobility.

BOOSTING HIS CAREER GROWTH WITH SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE

Now an HRIS consultant in the financial services sector, Mr Ng said that his enhanced proficiency in data analytics and programming has empowered him to devise more efficient processes and methodologies at work.

While he had been exposed to big data at his former workplace, he felt that a more structured learning approach deepened his understanding of data analytics and Python programming, compared to ad-hoc learning on the job or self-study.

“Attending these courses not only boosted my confidence in specific skill sets but gave me an edge over other job applicants. I also find that employers have more confidence in you when you have certifications from trusted continuing education and training providers like NTUC LearningHub.”

Mr Ng hopes to pursue a tech-centric master’s degree in the future, with the goal of becoming an HRIS director. Until then, he remains committed to acquiring competencies that will help shape his career.

“With perseverance and continuous learning, you will become an expert who can put your learning to good use and achieve your goals,” he said.

REINVENTING HIS PROFESSIONAL PATH AFTER RETRENCHMENT

The pandemic-induced downturn cost Mr Airul Qaiz Matthew his role as a project coordinator in the construction sector – but this event ended up being a catalyst for his career transformation.

“Being retrenched was a devastating loss,” he said candidly. “But I realised that everything happens for a reason. If I hadn’t lost my job, I would never have come to the epiphany that the job industry is changing, and I needed to reskill myself. Instead of being reactive, I had to become proactive.” 

Recognising the dynamic growth within the field and the multitude of opportunities it presented, Mr Airul, who is in his 30s, decided to pivot into the tech sector.

To gain the necessary skills, he enrolled in NTUC LearningHub’s SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) Cybersecurity Associate course.

He was not dissuaded by the fact that the last time he learnt anything related to technology was during secondary school. He admitted: “I even struggled with basic operations in Microsoft Office. But over time, the classes and the internship component of NTUC LearningHub’s SCTP programme taught me many skills, and the terminology and concepts became more familiar.”

His determination paid off. After mastering the requisite skill sets, Mr Airul secured a job as a cybersecurity administrator in the aviation industry, where he conducts risks assessments of systems and performs monthly log reviews.

“At work, I use skills related to Structured Query Language (SQL) and data interpretation that I picked up during the course,” he shared. “The course also provided a foundation for my continuous learning journey. This includes pursuing certifications such as the Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional qualifications.”

Mr Airul advises others contemplating career transitions to seize every opportunity to reskill and upgrade themselves. Courses and certifications like those offered at NTUC LearningHub can help to boost employability and enable career advancement.

“Knowledge is power,” he reflected. “Most companies today no longer look for those with ‘X’ years of experience – they want to know what skills and certifications you have. We need to constantly improve ourselves to remain employable.”

FLOURISHING WITH THE HELP OF NEW COMPETENCIES, AFTER UNEMPLOYMENT

Despite holding a degree in mechanical engineering with a specialisation in aeronautical engineering, Ms Noor Mustikha Noor Khalid, 26, found the doors to the aviation industry shut, no thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With prolonged unemployment taking its toll, she took on a job as a management associate in the social service sector, though she knew the role was not the best fit for her. 

A turning point came when she learnt about NTUC LearningHub’s SCTP Associate Data Analyst programme, while scrolling through Instagram. Ms Mustikha, who was already interested in the integration of engineering and technology, saw the programme as an ideal opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to join the tech industry.

The programme’s blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on application further appealed to her. “Without the avenue to demonstrate the skills we’ve learnt, certificates are just paper qualifications,” she reasoned. “SCTP offered the competencies for upskilling and included capstone projects to demonstrate my proficiency in SQL and Python.”

Ms Mustikha’s capstone projects also made for impressive additions to her portfolio during the job hunt. With tangible proof of her competencies and experience, she was able to secure her current role as a data and knowledge management executive in the education industry. She leverages software tools like Power BI, a skill she acquired during her course, to perform tasks such as managing, analysing and visualising data at work. 

Looking forward, she envisions expanding her skill set in domains such as data analytics and robotic process automation.

To sceptics of lifelong learning, she uses the analogy of a smartphone: “Your phone software and apps require regular updates to fix bugs, and these updates protect your phone from malicious vulnerabilities in data privacy and security. Similarly, lifelong learning bridges gaps in skill sets and competencies, and strengthens your personal well-being and your relevance in employment.”

Reflecting on her experience, Ms Mustikha noted that lacking relevant skills made it difficult for her to pursue a tech-related job. Choosing to upskill at NTUC LearningHub was the crucial factor enabling her to overcome this barrier: “The programme equipped me with the essential skill sets required in the tech field, effectively facilitating my successful transition from the social service sector to a tech-focused role.”

Take the first step towards a career switch by learning more about upskilling at NTUC LearningHub.