If you’re on the lookout for a career that guarantees you a promising ascend to success, look no further than the RSAF.

By Nabilah Husna A. Rahman

In the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), the pace of learning and development is inexorable. For Air Operations Systems Specialist (AOSS) Chen Huiling, gaining and applying the knowledge of operating various equipment is unique only to a career at the RSAF.

For the Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) alumnus, inspiration came in the distinctive form of a former polytechnic classmate who was an RSAF Warrant Officer in 2004. “She shared with me her story of what it’s like to be in the RSAF and her personal experiences, and that made me want to find out more about working there,” says Huiling.

“The recruitment drive in NYP made me understand more about AOSS and the complex job we have, having to work hand-in-hand in the controller-ATC (Authorised Training Centres) environment,” she adds.

As an AOSS, Huiling is primarily trained in operating, maintaining and servicing radars and sensor systems within the RSAF. Her job, she says, made her understand “the need and importance of (her) role to ensure that the Singapore airspace is safe”.

“Trust was something that was given to me to fulfil my job, and it has given me the opportunity to express myself and think of new ideas to improve on my job,” she says. “A huge challenge was learning how to operate complex equipment and this is something which you may not experience in the corporate world.”

“Training at Basic Military Training (BMT) was tough, but definitely enjoyable,” Huiling continues. “The technical knowledge gained in and from my own experiences of faults that can occur in the systems made me more knowledgeable, and I was able to share my experiences with my juniors.”

Huiling’s enthusiasm for her vocation fuels her progress in what she considers a fulfilling and meaningful career. She also notes that being a female in the RSAF is no fly in the ointment as everyone is treated equally.

A career for high-fliers
Recently awarded the Best Servicewoman for the Month Award in her unit, Huiling finds that her development throughout her service in the RSAF has been momentous. “When tasked with a new section appointment, it gives me the opportunity to learn and show my leadership skills on how I manage my new appointment,” she enthuses.

The recently introduced military career scheme called the Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) enables AOSS to work until the age of 60. Huiling hopes this will propel her further in the organisation. “I’m hoping to see myself being able to lead a group of new personnel, sharing my experience and knowledge with them, and also teaching them what should be done,” she says.

Her personal ambition mirrors her admirable work ethic. “My section’s shared vision says, ‘Leadership we are proud of, work we are passionate about, friends we can count on and a place we call home’,” she says. “Whenever I see this vision, I always remember that I am part of it. I’ll put in my best effort for any job I’m tasked with.”

Soaring ahead
A career as an AOSS is not entirely free from bumps in the road. Huiling’s shift duties in the operations unit require her to make adjustments to her social life, and she emphasises the need for good time management practices. “There were times when I couldn’t meet up with my loved ones and friends when I was on weekend duties,” she admits. “But I always make it a priority to spend my free time with them.”

Though challenging, her job allows her to be on the constant lookout for lessons to be learnt, even in the most unassuming of tasks. “I remember working on my Secondary Appointment, where I was tasked to be part of the renovation team for my squadron’s new common office,” Huiling shares. “The problems we faced were funding. But eventually, it was completed with great teamwork and support from all levels of my squadron.”

Those who hope to follow in her footsteps should familiarise themselves with the job scopes of the different vocations within the RSAF, as well as its mission.

“Always be ready for challenges! AOSS is a 24/7 vocation and it provides different experiences from the corporate world. You should also have good communications and leadership skills,” Huiling advises.

“Ask yourself, would you want to give it a try? Taste it – you’ll gain the numerous experiences that I’ve had!”