TOC Alumni | Lam Boon Yie

 
Interview by Peter Burns – Asia Motorsport Development

What are you currently up to now?
I am currently in the planning process of starting up my own venture with a partner. We are working on vehicle suspension components design at the moment and will market it out under our company brand when the time is right.
How has studying at TOC Automotive College changed your life?
I had a few life-changing experiences while studying at TOC. One of it was when I had the opportunity to work with the TOC Motorsports team during my study time. I definitely gained experience outside of the classroom. This motivated me even more to work in the motorsports industry, which then led me to pursue my Degree in Automotive Engineering.

What are your future plans?
I would like to seek continuous development in order for myself to become a competent and even greater automotive engineer. I am also hoping to meet and work together with like-minded people to explore different projects in the automotive industry. That being said, I would like to make a positive impact in the industry domestically and globally.

Thoughts on the automotive industry after graduating
What I would like to see in the near future is more industry-academic collaborations to provide different exposure to students. In another light of hope, I hope that the government and institutional bodies could facilitate and encourage new or existing companies to actively engage in Research and Development activities (R&D). This will enable the industry to improve on engineering capabilities and advanced manufacturing methods. That being said, this could lead the industry to become one of the most profitable field.

What are your current hobbies?
I enjoy reading technical books, meeting up with friends and spending time alone while enjoying a hot cup of tea.

Advice for students who wants to pursue automotive education
For students who have a passion for the automotive industry, attend a college that best suits you because college is the place where you can learn new things first-hand, backed by theory. I started with no knowledge whatsoever in the automotive field and I could only do the basics like, checking the engine oil level. However, upon graduation, I have the skills and practical knowledge in hand which became a great pathway to continue my Degree.

What is your favourite car and why?
I do not have a particular favourite car. For daily commuting, a car that is decent, easy and relatively cheap to maintain would be my preferred car. If I wish to experience the thrill and exhilaration of speed in a safe manner, driving a dedicated race car on the race track is my preferred choice.

Achievements you have made
• TOC outstanding achiever award 2012
• 2nd place in IET North East Region Final Year Project Competition 2016 in the UK
• David Crolla Memorial Prize for best performing Automotive Engineering Student of Class 2016 in University of Sunderland, UK.