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Dear Students, As the chairman of the Singapore Manufacturing
Federation (SMF) Youth Network Function Committee, representing over 5,000
manufacturing member companies, I am excited to connect with you - the future
innovators and leaders in technology. The manufacturing landscape in
Singapore is undergoing a remarkable transformation shaped by four core
pillars: Sustainability, Human Capital, Internationalisation,
and Productivity. Together, these pillars create a roadmap for the
industry of tomorrow.
Sustainability Sustainability is no longer an option; it is a
necessity. The SMF is championing initiatives that promote eco-friendly
practices, such as reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and
implementing circular economy principles. As you step into your careers,
understanding sustainable practices will be crucial. We are seeing a rise in
demand for talents who can help employers innovate and integrate green
technologies into their operations. According to the Ministry of Manpower
(MOM), Singapore’s green economy is expected to create 55,000 new and
upgraded jobs by 2030, with many of these roles requiring
sustainability-related skills in areas such as green manufacturing, energy
management, and waste reduction. Human Capital Equally vital is human capital development. The
future of manufacturing relies on skilled, adaptable individuals who are
ready to tackle emerging challenges. As undergraduates at NTU, I urge you to
invest in continuous learning. Our government has implemented a comprehensive
set of initiatives and policies such as SkillsFuture
to support continuous learning and upskilling of its workforce. These efforts
aim to prepare Singaporeans for emerging challenges in the rapidly evolving
global economy, especially in industries like manufacturing that are
undergoing digital transformation. Cultivating skills in areas like data
analytics, automation, and AI will enhance your value to prospective
employers. Remember, soft skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and
emotional intelligence are just as important, helping you thrive in
collaborative settings and navigate change effectively. Internationalisation Internationalisation presents exciting prospects for young professionals. As manufacturing
firms expand their global footprint, understanding cross-cultural
communications and international market dynamics will be invaluable. Your
ability to engage with diverse teams and understand global trends can open
doors to enriching career opportunities, whether in exports, trade relations,
or multinational operations. Productivity Lastly, productivity lies at the heart of
manufacturing success. The integration of advanced technologies and lean
methodologies fosters an environment of efficiency and continuous
improvement. Embracing a mindset focused on increasing productivity through
innovation will ensure you remain competitive in this rapidly changing field. I encourage you to engage with the SMF Youth
Network, where we can collectively explore these themes and prepare you for a
fulfilling career in manufacturing. Your contributions will play a vital role
in defining a sustainable and productive future for our industry. Come and join SMF Youth Network to be part of a
vibrant community of next generation Leaders in the Manufacturing Industry!
Join the SMF Youth Network here!
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