SETTING YOU UP FOR SUCCESS
Gan Mee San graduated with a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering( Honours) in 2020 and started her career as a process engineer with Micron, Singapore, where she developed a dry etch process that shaved off processing time by 11 % and translated into cost savings of USD 5 million.
She also led a task force to troubleshoot a disruption in production timelines following the launch of a new 3D NAND tech node, successfully reducing production time by 12 days. In 2023, she moved to the Netherlands to join ASML as a production engineer.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
At ASML, we are at the forefront of semiconductor technology, providing cutting-edge photolithography machines that are crucial for microchip manufacturing. As a production engineer, I am the engine that drives the production and delivery of these vital machines, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards of our customers.
But let me debunk a common misconception about my role: it is anything but routine. Every day brings a fresh set of challenges, making each day a new adventure. From optimising processes to troubleshooting hiccups, no two days are alike. My work hinges on strong project management and stakeholder coordination skills to drive continuous improvement so that we can make our machines faster, more cost-effective and of higher quality.
How have your career goals changed since your university years?
While in university, my passion was deeply rooted in the oil and gas industry but the challenges brought on by the pandemic disrupted my plans and I pivoted towards the booming semiconductor industry.
Despite transitioning fields, my overarching aspiration remains unchanged – I am committed to advancing into leadership roles within the semiconductor sector and making meaningful contributions to the industry’ s growth and innovation.
Why should students study engineering at Monash?
The intensive course aside, Monash offers a wealth of opportunities and experiences that extend beyond academic education. It is a vibrant melting pot where students from diverse backgrounds come together, creating a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and effective communication across cultures.
By immersing yourself in such a setting, you can truly gain invaluable skills that are essential for success in the international working environment. Speaking from experience, this serves as an excellent training ground that equipped me with the ability to navigate and thrive in global professional settings.
What’ s your advice to students?
I would like to share a motto that I live by: do not limit your challenge, challenge your own limits. This mindset is not only applicable to sports but also to life in general, including your academic and professional pursuits. Dare to step outside your comfort zone, tackle difficult problems, and explore innovative solutions. By challenging your own limits, you’ ll discover your true potential and pave the way for making a significant impact in your field.
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