Enhancing Bus Efficiencies For Smoother Journeys
Q: What intrigued you to pursue a career in the Public Transport industry?
A: My passion for the public transport industry began with my keen interest in driving and a curiosity about automotive vehicles. I joined as a Bus Captain ten years ago and later took on the role as a Depot Supervisor, further progressing my career in this field.
Q: Share with us what you do as a Depot Supervisor.
A: As a Depot Supervisor, my primary responsibilities include reviewing the daily schedules of our Bus Captains and ensuring their duties are correctly allocated. My role demands agility and the ability to think on my feet, especially in handling unforeseen situations. I need to be well-versed in various work procedures and always ready to provide advice to my colleagues. When faced with a shortage of manpower, I am tasked with strategising how best to utilise the available resources to maintain smooth operations and high service standards.
Q: What are the opportunities that the industry offers to graduates with technical or engineering qualifications?
A: To better serve commuters in the future, we are transforming our urban landscape through greener travel, greater connectivity and leveraging emerging technologies to deliver smarter and better services. There will definitely be opportunities for one to move into different areas, be it to support the daily operations, or the engineering works to maintain our fleets.
Q: What keeps you motivated in your role?
A: The broad exposure to different areas of bus operations keeps me motivated at work. Having the opportunity to understand the intricacies of the job from the perspective of a Bus Captain enriches my understanding and enhances my ability to effectively manage our operations. I am driven by a desire to support and lend a helping hand to my team, ensuring that we overcome challenges together.
Q: Share with us any achievement or memorable moment you have experienced in your work.
A: One memorable achievement in my work occurred during an unexpected downtime of our IT system. Faced with the challenge of continuing our daily operations without the aid of technology, we had to revert to traditional methods, using paper duty cards to reference the daily schedules. This situation demanded exceptional teamwork and adaptability to ensure that all duties were adequately catered for. It was a testament to the strength and resilience of our team, reinforcing the importance of collaboration.
Q: What are the challenges in your role, and how do you overcome them?
A: One of the primary challenges in my role as a Depot Supervisor is managing and allocating work amid unforeseen circumstances. These situations require quick decision-making and effective resource management to make sure that our daily operations continue smoothly. To overcome these challenges, I need to rally the support of our Bus Captains. Their cooperation and flexibility are crucial in adapting to the day's demands and meeting our operational requirements.
Q: As you look at the industry's future, what excites you the most?
A: Looking towards the future of the industry, what excites me the most is the sense of accomplishment that comes from working in a challenging, ever-changing environment. The integration of new technologies and the dynamic nature of public transport operations offer continuous prospects for learning and improvement. Additionally, the opportunity to serve the people of Singapore and contribute positively to their daily lives provides a sense of fulfillment.
Q: What would you say to someone considering a role in the industry?
A: Be prepared for a ride! It will be enriching and fulfilling to witness the public transport network running smoothly, which gives purpose to our work.