Daniel has always had a passion for teaching, even before he joined the teaching profession.
“It started when I began teaching formally in church,” said Daniel, “I met two mentors who affirmed me and encouraged me, and that was when I thought, maybe one day I can switch to teaching professionally.”
Eventually the opportunity came when the then-Director of ISS invited him to join the teaching team at NUS-ISS, and the rest is history.
INNOVATE@ISS speaks to Daniel about his industry and what it is about teaching that he enjoys.
1. Please tell us about your professional background
I started my professional life in a spinoff from ISS Research that evolved into a software development centre of IBM. In over 15 years thereafter, I took on various roles, such as software engineer, test engineer, test manager, product manager and project manager. From there, I took the management path and assumed the position as Department Head of e-Business, and later, as Director of Process and ISO Quality Programmes. My last role before I left was as Director of Operations, holding the Resource, Quality and Project Management Office, at the IBM subsidiary.
2. Could you share more about the work which you do at NUS-ISS?
I currently head a team in the practice of project management, product management and other related areas. I also teach and do some research and consultancy projects.
3. Why did you choose to teach at NUS-ISS?
I’ve always enjoyed the little opportunities I have to share my experience and knowledge – teaching adults who are motivated to learn, sharing my experiences, and helping others pick up new skills are why teaching is very much a calling for me.
4. What do you look forward to most about your work?
I always look forward to going into a class, teaching and meeting new people who are eager to learn something new. I get my great joy and satisfaction from knowing that I’ve helped someone.
5. How do you keep up with the industry?
The IT industry is continuously changing. Reading, watching the news, listening to BBC and talking with friends are just some of the many ways that I try to keep up. Certainly more rooms for improvement in this area as there is a huge need to separate noise from information to keep abreast of future trends.
6. What are your favorite activities when you are not working?
I love spending time with my wife and two girls. Sometimes I like to do some home improvement projects, swim or work out in the gym. Recently I’ve been trying to pick up guitar, but I must say that I’m still a novice at it.
7. Tell us something about yourself that very few people know.
I was actually born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – a few months just before Singapore separated from Malaysia. My dad was seconded to Kuala Lumpur and our whole family was there for a few years. As a result I am the same age as Singapore (always reminded of my age by national celebrations)! I have a Malaysian birth certificate and was a provisional Singapore citizen till I was 21 years old. Still, I’ve always held a pink IC and served national service here.
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