Never in my life would I imagine that I am an engineer myself today.
I applied for the Shell scholarship which eventually led to an offer to do Chemical Engineering in university. Thinking that it could be very much related to my favourite subject i.e. Chemistry, well, was I very wrong. Chemistry is only part and parcel of the whole engineering story. The real engineering experience came in the second year of university. I was sipping my Dutch Lady milk packet thinking “wow..I’m in second year doing Fluid Mechanics. I am actually studying engineering!!”. From then onwards, I started learning about plant optimization, process simulations, safety, plant economics and equipment design.
But I was never interested to become an engineer. I was never good technical wise.
The next two years were difficult. Subjects got tougher. I had sleepless nights studying, completing assignments not to mention the gruelling months of completing the final year design project. I struggled and kept moving on until I graduated. I did not regret my actions and am very proud on where I stand today.
My last engineering unit paper was Process Economics & Management. Last revision venue was the library memorizing on leadership skills. After two hours of writing, it was indeed the happiest and the best day of my life. I bid farewell to the books & notes as I kept them in the box. Soon after, I landed my first job as a R&D chemist in a glue plant. Three months later, I attended my convocation ceremony.
After 15 months of working, I left for another industry which I have been very passionate about since university. I officially started duty as a process engineer in an engineering design office; and here I am ever since.
One of the best moments in work was seeing the design project I got involved was executed where the procurement and installation process took place. It’s always nice to tell people “I did that one”.
Undoubtedly, any engineering work comes with a huge responsibility. Operability, cost, maintenance and safety issues must be taken into account during design phase.
A career as an engineer should not be monotonous. One has to keep track with the latest technologies available and meet more people. Joining IEM Miri has done great wonders for me. My horizons have been broadened and will never stop.
Doctors treat humans and veterinarians treat animals as patients. For the engineer, our patients are non-living organisms. An aircraft engineer fixes a faulty aircraft to ensure all passengers reach their destination safely. An engineer fixes the problem to ensure that you are able to enjoy the best things in life effectively and economically without jeopardizing the environment. Regardless of what engineering discipline you belong, it is you who design, construct and maintain for the benefit of the public and future generation taking economics and the environment into account.
Engr. June Janesby Roy Jihok
Process Engineer
Ranhill WorleyParsons S/B
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