ME3 Angela Chan Wen Hui

What intrigued you about a career in the RSN?

I am not one to be confined to a 9 to 5 job in an office dealing with the same work every day. I had friends who chose careers with the SAF and I thought the Navy would be a suitable choice for me, as nothing could be more dynamic than working on board a ship.

Share with us what you do as Command & Control Cluster Chief of RSS Resolution.

I am in charge of the command and control systems and navigation systems of the ship. Essentially, the command and control systems help to make sense of the dynamic three-dimensional battle situation, identifying and managing air, surface and sub-surface threats. The navigation systems, using radar, aid the crew in the navigation of the ship.

What makes a career in the Navy exciting?

I think the list is very long… From the operations that we conduct daily knowing that they have a part to play in protecting our waters, to the many ports of call we visit, the many different roles that you can assume in your career, and the unmatched views you enjoy out at sea.

How has your character grown since you joined the Navy?

I used to be indecisive, soft-spoken and unsure of what I want. Now, I have a department under my charge, where I am entrusted with the responsibility to make critical decisions. This has helped me learn how to speak up and defend my stand.

What is your proudest achievement in the Navy to date?

I think my proudest achievement was when we managed to disrupt an attempted piracy attack during one of our missions.

What are some of the most exciting/ meaningful missions that you have embarked on?

I was given the opportunity to be part of the task group commanding a multinational force to conduct anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. I got to sail on board a US destroyer for three months. It was a real eye-opener as I got to liaise with the navies of many different countries.

What keeps you motivated in the Navy?

The job satisfaction, the dynamic day-to-day work and the people I work with every day. The one big family that I have grown to like and respect.

Share with us more about your family.

I am married with two kids: an 11-year-old girl and a 8-year-old boy. I met my husband during one of my tours on board ship and things sort of fell into place. He is a Communication System Expert in the Navy.

Has it been difficult handling both career and family? How do you juggle both commitments, especially when you are out sailing? Has the Navy helped in any way?

I admit that it can be tough to strike a balance between work and family. I am lucky that I have a husband who understands my job and is supportive of what I do. When sailing, I stay in contact with my family through the Internet and satellite phone. The Navy also helps plan activities that include family members to help enhance family bonding and also to allow them to better understand our jobs.

What advice would you give to anyone who is considering joining the Navy?

Understand what you are in for. The job is definitely tough, but which job isn’t? Once you get the hang of it, it is a job that provides you with many challenges, as well as much excitement and fulfilment.