For Logasan S/O Rajnthern, the idea of a scholarship was not something he considered until a year into his undergraduate studies at NTU. With a strong academic record and more clarity on his passion, the LTA Mid-Term Undergraduate Scholarship became a big stepping stone to achieving his career goal of shaping the future of Singapore’s rail infrastructure.
From his experience pursuing his master’s degree at Imperial College London to completing his first year as a project engineer at LTA, Logasan shares how he applied what he learnt in college in the real world and how LTA’s comprehensive support and structured career development sets him up for the next phase of his career.
Mid-Term Scholarship Giving You More Time to Decide
After over a year at NTU, my interest in Electrical and Electronic Engineering grew, eventually leading me to specialise in Power Engineering. Before starting university, taking up a scholarship was not on my mind. However, with strong academic results, a passion for transforming society, and a mind to explore innovations in the power sector, I found the motivation to apply for the LTA Mid-Term Undergraduate Scholarship.
I saw this scholarship as a chance to contribute meaningfully to a public career and create change in people’s commuting journeys, while being exposed to innovations in the rail industry. The mid-term scholarship gave me more time to decide on my specialisation and prepare myself with knowledge related to the power and rail sectors.
A Rewarding Year at Imperial College
I am grateful to LTA for the opportunity to pursue my master’s degree at Imperial College London. Studying abroad is a unique experience as you are exposed to different learning cultures, environments, and people. The curriculum was designed to enhance our critical thinking and develop solutions to real-world problems. I was able to delve deeper into my field of study and engage in intellectual discussions with classmates from diverse backgrounds. Outside of lectures, I socialised with my classmates over meals and watched football matches together. Sometimes, we would gather to enjoy the traditional Sunday roast, which helped me immerse myself in their culture.
From Classroom to The Real World
The biggest takeaway from my university days was developing a strong foundation in my core engineering field. I always prioritise honing my basic understanding of concepts as it enables me to explore deeper insights and engage in meaningful conversations with professionals in the field.
I apply the same principles in my work environment. Whenever I am on a project, I take the initiative to understand its purpose and objectives, allowing me to perform at my best. I actively participate in discussions with colleagues from different divisions who provide valuable advice to enhance project progress and outcomes.
It has been a year since I started working at LTA, and my biggest achievement to date is being part of a multi-functional team seeing the East Coast Integrated Depot project to completion. I contributed to the testing and commissioning of the Traction Power System for the East-West Line and played a key role in the pre-inspection process, where we successfully energised the system for train testing. Following the completion of all tests, I was selected to be part of the depot handover team, where we conducted regular meetings with the operator to ensure a smooth handover process. As part of the handover process, I coordinated with contractors to ensure that system handovers and training programmes were completed on schedule. Contributing to the safety of Singapore’s train operations has been a significant milestone at LTA that I am proud of.
The Road Ahead: Shaping the Future of Rail
In five years, I aim to have gained a comprehensive understanding of Singapore’s rail network operations. My goal is to take on leadership roles that contribute to the reliability and efficiency of the rail system. I also hope to be involved in in both project management and design principles, which will position me to make critical decisions as a leader. As a senior engineer, I would look forward to guiding and educating young engineers about Singapore’s land transportation system, whilst emphasising the importance of our work in serving the public.
I aim to become a Professional Engineer in my field. Having passed the fundamental examination, I am now preparing to take the professional examination in three years. This qualification will provide me with the expertise to contribute more effectively to LTA in both technical and design aspects, ensuring the safety and efficiency of Singapore’s rail infrastructure.
What Can Prospective LTA Scholars Expect?
All scholars are enrolled in a structured development programme designed to nurture their growth and leadership potential. Through the programme, you will rotate across various groups and divisions, gaining exposure to the diverse functions within LTA. This experience helps develop well-rounded and versatile leaders.
Beyond technical responsibilities, LTA encourages scholars to take on roles that hone their leadership and management skills. Opportunities to volunteer as internal committee members allow scholars to connect and collaborate with colleagues from different technical backgrounds, offering a holistic and dynamic learning environment.
LTA is committed to cultivating the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of Singapore’s transport systems. If you are driven by the idea of creating a lasting impact through innovation and improving the lives of others, the LTA scholarship is your gateway to a fulfilling and rewarding career.
LOGASAN S/O RAJNTHERN
LTA Undergraduate Scholarship (Mid-Term)
Master of Science, Future Power Networks, Imperial College London
Now: Project Engineer, Power Supply Division at the Land Transport Authority