People of NP CET Academy

Associate Lecturer Lee Thian Pau

You might already be familiar with our programmes and courses aimed at upskilling and opening up career transitioning and advancement opportunities for adult learners. In this series, learn more about the people integral to our academic and administrative teams and find out how they continue to take inspiration from our past and present adult learners here at NP CET Academy.

Associate Lecturer Mr Lee Thian Pau joined Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Engineering in 1988. Read on to get some insights into his experience and anecdotes from his teaching experience and discover how he continues to make an impact with his lessons.

1. You joined Ngee Ann Poly as a lecturer in 1988. Can you tell us more about your background and how you decided to become a lecturer?

I previously worked as an electronic engineer. Ngee Ann Polytechnic was expanding rapidly at that time and my friend told me about the opportunity to join as a lecturer. I have always had a calling to teach from my younger days. I applied to the job advertisement and here I am today!

2. What motivates you in your day-to-day role in teaching?

Knowing that what I do in the classroom will make a small change in my student’s life in terms of knowledge and interest in engineering motivates me to deliver a good lesson.

3. You specialise in Project Management and Construction related courses for CET learners. Can you tell us more about this course and why this topic is important in the courses you teach?

I graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering, which is an evergreen industry as we need electricity in almost everything in our highly digital landscape today. So, training students in this field enables us to meet the ever-present demand for learners with a strong knowledge of electrical engineering.

4. How long have you taught adult learners? What do you enjoy about your job and what are some of the positive feedback you’ve received from your adult learners?

I have been teaching adult learners for about 10 years. I am very impressed with their level of motivation as they are able to attend their classes after work and stay focused for the whole evening.

5. Is there any unforgettable memory that you have teaching in CETA?

I once reconnected with a CET graduate and shared with me that I was the one who inspired him to stay on in his course despite of all the difficulties he faced at that time. I was deeply touched by his remarks. I did not remember the actual details but perhaps I was encouraging at that time. It felt good to know that such encouraging words had an impact on him.

6. How do you recharge on your days off? Do you have any hobbies that you are passionate about?

I play pickle ball with my friends twice a week. It helps to keep me fit and gives me a break from my daily routine.

7. Are there any words of advice that you would like to pass on to the reader?

Follow your heart and stay positive in all circumstances. There is always something good in any situation which we can appreciate.

We hope you have enjoyed reading about Mr Lee and find his words of advice inspiring enough to take that next step towards enrolling in the courses that interest you. Click here to browse our catalogue of engineering courses and stay tuned as we bring you more stories from our team!