WorldSkills 2008 Finalist  - Tan Kia Wei

Skill Area: Industrial Electronics
Name of Institution: Temasek Polytechnic
Name of Secondary School: Bedok Green Secondary School

Participating in WorldSkills Singapore 2008 is a learning journey for Tan Kia Wei, 20.  "I feel that result does not matter; what is important is that we learn during the process. I have gained quite a lot of experience as compared to my friends who did not participate in this competition. As for the result, it would be a bonus to me," said Kia Wei.

"I was really nervous before the qualifying rounds.  I kept wondering what kind of questions will be asked, and will I be able to answer them?  What kind of competitor will I meet? There were so many doubts.  I became even more nervous when I reached the competition venue, as the starting time drew near.  However I recalled that my coach, Mr. Low, had advised us to just treat it as a normal practice session, so as not to add unnecessary stress on ourselves.  Recalling those words calmed me down,” said Kia Wei.

Under intensive training from his coach, Kia Wei qualified for the Finals.  "Now I am even more excited as I can continue to learn even more.  My coach did not give me more pressure just because I am in the Finals.  He just told me to continue to work hard, and not to stress myself," said Kia Wei.

Kia Wei is confident that the entire experience will help to improve his skill in electronics.  “Treat this as an experience and not a competition, it doesn’t matter whether you win or not," he added.