Republic of Singapore Air Force
Feature | RSAF

Turning Passion into Profession

Military Expert 1 ME1 Brilliant Koh gives us a peek into her work with the Republic of Singapore Air Force RSAF.
RSAF

ME 1 Brilliant Koh Qi Ling is an Air Operations Systems Expert with a Diploma in Computer Engineering Built Environment, Engineering & Maritime from Temasek Polytechnic. She is an Air Operations Systems Expert who oversees command and control and communications systems.

To keep Singapore's skies safe, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) draws on the expertise of many men and women, whose teamwork is essential in building a reliable and credible Air Force that stands ready to defend Singapore. Military Expert 1 (ME1) Brilliant Koh tells us about her work as an Air Operations and System Experts (AOSX) and how she helps guide our pilots to fly safely and return home each day to their family.

Why did you choose to join the RSAF?

My dad has always been my inspiration. Growing up, I was intrigued by the many stories he shared about his work as an Air Force Engineer (Maintenance). I also had the opportunity to attend the Singapore Airshow during my childhood, which fueled my interest in aircraft. Hence, I decided to follow my dad's footsteps to join the Air Force and play my part for the nation alongside him.

Tell us about your work and responsibilities.

I decided to join the RSAF as an AOSX as I was intrigued by the diverse opportunities the job offers. As an AOSX, I ensure the readiness of the command and control systems, and the communication systems that we use to ensure the safe and efficient conduct of air operations. Currently, I am also undergoing training to support the controllers who provide Air Traffic Services to ensure the safe launch and recovery of RSAF aircraft operating around Singapore.

What drives you to keep doing what you do?

Getting a behind the scenes look at Singapore's air defence made me realise the importance of my role and how teamwork integral between myself, my colleagues, and the larger Air Force community to ensure the sovereignty of Singapore skies. I am proud to be part of this team. Knowing that my contributions matters spurs me to continue doing what I do. Of course, having my dad's support and advice helps as well.


ME1 Brilliant Koh

ME1 Brilliant Koh

What career development opportunities are there in the RSAF?

Both airmen and airwomen are given equal opportunities to shine in the RSAF. Besides honing our job competencies, I appreciate that there is also a focus on developing ourselves through personal development courses. I find communication courses relevant to my line of work, helping me to be more effective when communicating with my team, and giving clear instructions when supporting the controllers. I also look forward to future opportunities to be exposed to different work environments and overseas deployments.

How has this organisation helped you develop, personally and professionally?

Besides the personal development courses, I am grateful for the opportunities to participate in and to organise forums and events for both the squadron and my Command. These events provide junior officers with insights of how the organisation functions and how different roles come together to achieve mission success. I was also given a chance to speak at these events, which helped me be more confident when addressing a large group of people and senior management.



What do you hope to achieve in the RSAF?

I aspire to be an instructor and an excellent mentor to my juniors. I hope that we can grow together and be outstanding AOSXs that the RSAF can depend on. In the longer term, I hope to be part of the team that steers and advances the AOSX vocation in its future development.

What would you say to someone considering a career with the RSAF?

A career with the Air Force is not like any other corporate jobs. We are a professional force comprising people who are passionate about what they do. If you are keen to serve the community and defend Singapore's skies, then this is the job for you!