For Moh Ai Wei, her time at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) has shaped how she thinks, acts and adapts to change. More than just an academic pursuit, it instilled in her skills and values that she continues to carry forward in her career today.

When asked about the one lesson from SIT that continues to guide her, Moh Ai Wei (or ‘Momo’ as some call her) laughs as she admits it may sound a little cheesy: “Learn, Unlearn, Relearn.”

“This mindset drives me to ask what I don’t know first, instead of relying on textbook solutions. It allows me to approach challenges with fresh perspectives, which has been invaluable in project management and problem-solving,” says the 2019 graduate from SIT’s Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering (Land) programme.

Building Strong Foundations

Reflecting on her SIT days, Ai Wei shares how her professors and engaging modules—particularly in communications—were pivotal in preparing her for life beyond campus. “From documenting our work experiences to crafting resumes and presenting key information, these skills ensured that I was always ready to communicate effectively,” she recalls.

Among the skills Ai Wei picked up during her time in SIT was how to apply LEAN methodologies to reduce waste and improve efficiency. “It may seem straightforward, but framing the problem accurately, identifying root causes and then iteratively developing the appropriate solutions can be a complex process.”

The abundant exposure to training, industry talks, and programmes gave her a solid understanding of the market while also helping her understand emerging areas in the sector. Combined with honest conversations with professors during the course of her studies and Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP), these experiences armed her with the growth mindset and skills necessary to thrive after graduation.

“In my first role with Grand Hyatt Singapore, I was fortunate to be involved in various innovation committees looking at system machine changes and sustainability-related projects alongside my regular portfolio of additions and alterations work as an in-house engineer.”

That experience deepened her appreciation for how innovation happens in practice through teamwork, experimentation, and iteration.

Ai Wei was also liaising directly with government grant agencies, preparing and briefing detailed project scopes to secure the necessary grant support to launch key innovation initiatives. This work required her to analyse and articulate how these changes would bring about job redesign—a vital step in her employer's progress toward becoming a truly innovative organisation.

“These lessons shaped my confidence to be bold in decision-making, and to adopt critical and design thinking approaches—skills that I still apply every day in my career,” she explains.

While many may feel that her current job is a pivot from her previous engineering role, Ai Wei views it as a natural evolution of her skillset. “The foundation I built during my IWSP and as an engineer taught me to collaborate across functions, and use methodologies such as 5S or fishbone diagrams to streamline work processes.”

Today, armed with additional skills in data analytics, communication, critical thinking and project management, Ai Wei contributes meaningfully in her innovation and transformation role at Mandai Wildlife Group. 

Ai Wei with her fellow course mates at her Graduation Ceremony

A Student Memory to Cherish Forever

Among her unforgettable experiences as an SIT student was serving on the planning committee for SIT’s very first Dialogue With SITizens in 2016, graced by then Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Working alongside peers from different degree programmes and the SIT Corporate Communications team, Ai Wei helped pull off a milestone event that remains deeply etched in her memory.

Aside from juggling schoolwork and project meetings with her classmates, she had to cope with multiple rehearsals and document drafts to manage such a high profile event. Coupled with the fact that the organising team was spread across SIT’s satellite campuses at that time, it took some effort for them to bond and find their rhythm. Schedules had to be accommodated, and communication channels had to be set up to ensure nothing slipped through the cracks.

“It was a rare and exciting experience, especially when SIT was still young and campuses were decentralised. Yet the event still drew a crowd. It felt special to be part of SIT’s history.”

“This experience taught me deeply about trust. Trusting the process, but also having trust in my teammates. Good teammates do not come by often, but with clear direction and sights set to work towards a common goal, it will point the team in the right way to the desired outcome.”

Ai Wei with then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, at the inaugural Dialogue With SITizens held at the former SIT@Dover campus 

Proud Moments Beyond Graduation

Graduation was not the end of Ai Wei’s journey with SIT—it was the beginning of another chapter. One of her proudest achievements was being featured in a video commemorating SIT’s 10^th Anniversary as an autonomous university (AU).

“To be part of SIT’s 10th anniversary celebrations as one of its pioneer SITizens, to contribute back in that way, and to carry the name of being a SIT graduate with pride—that was truly special,” she enthused.

Coming from a polytechnic background, Ai Wei also takes great pride in completing her journey at SIT and showcasing the hands-on, industry-ready attitude SITizens bring to their professions.

At SWITCH 2022, sharing about her work at Mandai Wildlife Group

Advice to SIT Students: Dream Big, Stay Flexible

Ai Wei has wise words for SITizens navigating their own path. “Do not be afraid to dream big. What you learn shouldn’t be confined to your programme—it’s all transferable to the real world. Both soft and hard skills serve you well in different contexts.”

She also emphasises flexibility and self-compassion in career and life decisions. “Your decisions may pivot, your ideas may change. And that’s okay. Work on a timeline that is true to your own terms.”

For those considering SIT as their university of choice, Ai Wei’s advice is clear. “SIT’s culture is vibrant, unique, and hands-on. If you value real-world experiences, strong student life, and practical learning, SIT is the place to be.”

She adds, “University life isn’t easy, but it will be fun if you immerse yourself fully in both academics and student life.”

Hosting duties at the Mapletree Challenge Finals in 2019