KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus celebrated a landmark event with its inaugural Alumni Coffee Talk hosted by the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science (FECS) last 15 May. The event brought together industry experts to share insights on transitioning from academia to the professional world. Moderated by Ts Dr Chung Ping Ping, the event featured distinguished speakers from Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), PCSS Consultancy Sdn Bhd and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB).
The event kicked off with a talk by Antionette Goh Wei Ting, a Senior Executive in Research and Development, SDEC. Her talk titled “Navigating the Path from Academia to Industry: Personal Insights and Lessons Learned” highlighted the importance of embracing a personal journey. According to Antionette, one must leverage one’s acquired skills and be adaptable to achieve career success. In industry, the focus shifts towards practical applications and producing tangible outcomes, she emphasized.
Ms Antionette stressed that one must leverage one’s acquired skills and needs to be adaptable in achieving career success
Ir. Ts. Goh Kian Hui, Senior Project Engineer with Sarawak Energy Berhad concurred. Ir Ts Goh shared that throughout his journey, he continuously applied his academic knowledge in real-world scenarios. He also stressed the importance of proactive learning. “Continuous learning and seeking hands-on opportunities are key to lifelong growth,” Ir. Ts. Goh advised.
Ir Ts Goh shared that continuous learning and seeking hands-on opportunities are key to lifelong growth
A discussion on emerging industry trends held the audience captive and engaged throughout the session. Presented by Ir. Ts. Shazwan Ehsan Jamaludin, a BIM Coordinator at PCSS Consultancy Sdn Bhd, the discussion touched particularly on digitalization where a demonstration of cutting-edge 4D simulation technology was shared. “Aligning our academic curriculum with industry needs is crucial for preparing students for the future,” said Ir. Ts. Shazwan.
The success of this inaugural event highlights Swinburne’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and collaboration. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, the Australian branch university aims to equip students with the skills and connections needed for successful careers. Future events are planned to continue these enriching and thought-provoking engagements.
Swinburne’s inaugural Alumni Coffee Talk conclude with a closing remark from Ir Prof Dr Su Hieng Tiong, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science. Prof Su expressed gratitude to the speakers, attendees and organizers.
“The discussion that transpired at the event underscores the importance of connecting academia with industry, which in turn drives innovation and growth,” Dr Su noted. It provides invaluable opportunities for current students to gain insights into industry trends, foster a more meaningful connection and better equip them for success in their respective fields, he added.
Dr Su, accompanied by Ir Dr Yeu Yee Lee, the organising chair for the event, presented tokens of appreciation to the speakers.
Swinburne is an Australian university based in Melbourne, Australia. Swinburne is ranked among the Top 1% of universities globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and the latest Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). Swinburne Sarawak has been recognised as one of the country’s Top 10 Preferred Private Universities by JobStreet.com. With a vision of ‘people and technology working together to build a better world’, among its moon shots or mission is for every Swinburne learner to get work experience and for every Swinburne graduate to get, or create a job.
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website, Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram page (@swinburnesarawak), Twitter page (@Swinburne_Swk), TikTok page (@swinburnesarawak) or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).