Improve and reinvent global communications systems to better serve users.

Telecommunications is all about connecting people, whether through traditional fixed-line telephones, computers and laptops, or mobile devices.

A key enabler for various fields and regulated by the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA), telecommunications is vital in raising Singapore’s productivity and transforming business processes. As for IT, its involvement in this sector has become essential in Singapore’s bid to become a Smart Nation.

Job opportunities are usually divided into two categories: vendors and carriers.

Put simply, vendors such as Apple, Samsung, Huawei and Agilent, provide the hardware and software the industry needs. On the other hand, carriers like M1, SingTel and StarHub deliver telecommunications services to end users.

Graduates aspiring to break into the field can also find employment with IT consultancy providers, much like Accenture and IBM.

What responsibilities are given to new hires early on depends on whether they’re working with vendors or carriers. In the former’s case, they’re usually put in technical roles, first assisting in hardware or software development before moving onto other positions to accumulate experience.

On the other hand, while hopefuls working with carriers have more roles to choose from, most of them will require specialist knowledge. In addition, most organisations in this category run graduate or management associate programmes with job rotations and mentorships to ease newcomers to the workforce.

Work generally comes in the form of projects, and responsibilities tend to range from hardware and software R&D, product testing, setting up or maintaining the necessary infrastructure, technical sales and marketing and supporting customers and clients.

In addition, except for when deadlines are fast approaching, extra hours usually aren’t needed. Thus, those working in this industry tend to enjoy a healthy work-life balance.

Although telecommunications make up a small percentage of the information and communications services industry in Singapore, it’s still one of the top contributors in terms of value added.

A $30m fund has been introduced to accelerate the adoption and commercialisation of 5G solutions under the IMDA’s 5G Innovation Programme to create a vibrant 5G ecosystem, including developing talent and services.

Work can be very interesting, due in a large part to the range of job responsibilities available, which also evolve in tandem with telecommunications’ rapid development of technology.

Frustration can mount when networks go down, and the pressure to repair the system or infrastructure can come down hard.

Constant and speedy development also translates to graduates needing enough self-motivation to keep up, or risk being left behind.

• Awareness of latest IT and technology trends • Problem-solving skills • An eye for detail • Interpersonal skills • Research skills • Analytical skills