COL (Ret) Leong Choong Yew

Col (Ret) Leong Choong Yew is the director of the Centre of Geohazard Observations, Nanyang Technological University’s Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS).

Colonel (COL) (Ret) Leong Choong Yew never doubted that he was well-poised to take on the demands of the corporate world, a quiet confidence he credits the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) for. One-and-a-half years into his post-military career, he looks back at how he prepared for his career switch.

How did you come upon your current job?
In 2017 – one year before my retirement, I received an email about a job opportunity at the Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS). The EOS Director was looking for someone with operations, management, planning, and relationship-building experience, which was right up my alley. He was also open to hiring ex-military personnel for the role, recognizing the value that we can offer. My job application was accepted, and I started my journey into a brand new world in natural hazards research in earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, and rising sea levels!

How did you prepare for your post-military career?
I spent my last two years in the RSAF thinking carefully about what I would and would not like to do in my next career. The programmes run by CTRC gave me an avenue to sort out my thoughts and develop an action plan to move on to my next career. I am also thankful to have been able to use the LEAP fund to subsidize fees for courses I was interested in. By the time I took up the new job, I was pretty clear on ways I could apply my skills acquired in the RSAF to my new workplace.

The job search process is typically something unfamiliar to servicemen. Tell us more about your experience.
For me, it was largely not too difficult. Military officers have a lot to offer, really. The tough part was reaching out to people and organizations to seek career opportunities and pitching my usefulness as I was not used to it at all. The wait and lack of response were uncomfortable at times, but I learned to manage my expectations. It also helped that I was absolutely confident that the competencies and experience I developed in the RSAF are universal and applicable to the corporate world.

Any advice for transiting servicemen on managing the job search process?
The leadership, management, planning, and organizing competencies developed during your years in the SAF are comprehensive, valuable, and applicable to many industries. Hence, it is important to pitch your relevance well during your chats with potential employers. I think many employers may not know enough about SAF servicemen to feel assured that we can fit into their organizations. So, always be confident about your strengths, so that you can articulate them well. Also, bear in mind that you are responsible for your next career, and to actively seek opportunities. If you have a wide network of friends, great. However, if you have a small social circle, it is important to get out of your comfort zone and start reaching out. It may be awkward at the start, but you will no doubt overcome it.