He leaps ahead of technological changes with skills upgrading

Onn Onn took his studies lightly during his schooldays but his work in the fast-moving electronics industry, has convinced him that learning is the only way to go. He says, “Technology, processes and equipment are always evolving. Today’s technology is yesterday’s news. To remain relevant, you have to keep on moving or be left behind.”

Starting out as a mechanic with NTC 3 qualification at ST Kinetics, he proactively acquired new skills by attending night classes. He trained himself in a wide range of areas, from technical skills in motor mechanics to managerial skills in business management, financial accounting and commercial law. He has also led teams overseas to Germany and Austria to be skilled up in the new technologies that the company is acquiring. Equally important, is his training in quality control which equips him to analyse the job processes to lower cost and drive better workflow.

And through this constant rejuvenation of skills, Onn Onn has been able to be more productive at work. Just a year into his job, he came up with a valuable suggestion to make use of condemned equipment as educational models to train workers. In 1996, he guided his team members to submit innovative ideas which saved his company more than $52,000 annually. Such contributions have led him to be promoted progressively to his current position as an Assistant Manager.