Crystal Ng Wing Laam, Lead Engineer, CCT

Q. What does be a woman in tech today mean to you?

A woman can be anything these days. When I was in engineering school, around 30% of my classmates were women, and many of them were the smartest and coolest people I knew. Gender is not a limitation at all, don’t let that label you. Perhaps in many people’s eyes, women in tech might face certain struggles. But I’m sure these struggles are equally present in other fields.

Q. What do you have to say to young girls who want to pursue a career in I&T?

Just do it. Have fun and if you are eventually bored, the creativity and problem-solving skills you’ve gained can take you far in anything else you want to pursue.

Q. What are your favourite pastimes outside of work?

My interests change like the seasons. Hiking, lifting, running, cycling, boxing, yoga… whatever that gives me a good sweat and brings me close to nature. And I’m currently obsessed with brewing coffee.

Q. If you weren’t a researcher, what would you be right now?

I’d have to live another life to know. But I’d like to interact with people more, since being a software dev is almost the opposite. Perhaps a teacher, physiotherapist, or even a social worker.