Laiza 「ライザ」
Senior Engineer
Structural Analysis Group
Question 1: What are five words that best describe you?
Multi-faceted, dedicated, adventurous, growth-oriented, family-centric.
Question 2: If you still remember, can you share the reason why you chose this company before?
I chose Yokogawa Techno Philippines as they have a specific team that specializes in structural analysis engineering, a field I have been passionate about even before graduating. Considering that this is a Japanese company, the chance to work on projects in Japan with their expertise in earthquake engineering, and to acquire knowledge about Japanese specifications for structures made me want to join this team.
Question 3: What are the things you like about working here?
Doing structural analysis has been my dream job, and I'm having fun doing it. When it comes to work, one of the most important aspects to me is the work environment, and I consider myself fortunate to be surrounded with teammates who are very supportive and are fun to be with.
Question 4: What does it mean for you to be a recipient of the Best Engineer award?
I am honored to have received this award after completing my one-year training in Japan and returning to the Philippines with increased responsibilities. This recognition gave me the validity that I have been able to fulfill these expanded duties. I am grateful for the acknowledgment, and it motivates me to continue doing my best at work.
Question 5: Did you expect to receive this award?
I did not anticipate receiving the Best Engineer Award, as I believe there are many talented individuals in our team. Grateful for this recognition, it helped me to reflect on and appreciate my own progress since joining the company. This achievement would not have been possible without the help of my teammates and my Japanese project heads who have always been patient in training and teaching me since day one.
Question 6: Looking back at your first day working at YTP, did this award cross your mind?
Landing in a position that aligns with my dream profession motivated me to do my best. I believed that receiving the Best Engineer recognition someday would validate that aspiration, and I am truly grateful to realize this accomplishment now.
Question 7: How do you find your job?
The work itself is very challenging. It is a continuous learning process which makes it enjoyable and fulfilling at the same time.
Question 8: What's next for you? What are your plans?
If given the chance, I aspire to undergo further training in Japan to acquire the knowledge and skill set necessary for performing tasks at the level of my Japanese project leaders. I hold great admiration for their proficiency in this profession, and I aim to follow their footsteps, and have the same level of excellence in this profession.
Question 9: Share some thoughts with aspiring engineers who want to follow in your footsteps.
Being an engineer is a challenging job that demands hard work. However, hard work alone is sufficient only for short-term success. To attain long-term success, balance is crucial. As professionals, it is also our responsibility to find ways to make our work enjoyable, to make sure we get adequate rest, and to be physically and mentally healthy. These factors are essential for becoming effective and sustainable professionals in the long run and should not be compromised.
Question 10: Since you are working in a Japanese company, do you have any favorite Japanese words/phrases?
Wabi-sabi (侘寂) – a way of life centered in the beauty of transience and imperfection.
Question 11: If you could travel back in time, specifically on your first day of work here, what would you say to your younger self?
Thank you for choosing this path. You might not know what's going on with the computer in front of you, as everything is written in Japanese. But in a few years, you're going to be given recognition as best engineer. You'll love Japan, you'll play in the snow, perform onstage in Tokyo, see cherry blossoms, and meet a lot of awesome people – all because you chose this path. Keep going; it's worth it.
