Behind the bustling streets, there is a group of dedicated transportation planning professionals, including IVE alumnus, Benny Ng. Getting the opportunity to work in Middle East, he decisively accepted the challenge, taking the job of transportation infrastructure planning on the desert, contributing his expertise, and at the same time expanding his personal horizons. This 10-year overseas experience not only enriched his life, but also laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in transportation infrastructure development upon his return to Hong Kong. Let's delve into Benny's journey to understand how he got started from VTC, ventured into the Middle East, and returned to Hong Kong to step forward from his experiences, forging a path to success.
The Seed of Aspirations: A Path to Enlightenment
Benny studied science during his secondary school years. However, his Advanced Level Examination results unfortunately did not meet the criteria for admission to local university, so he needed to find an alternative academic path to move forward. By the time, IVE provided a clear roadmap just like a beacon in the darkness for Benny, illuminating his future prospects. Consequently, he decided to enroll in the Higher Diploma in Environmental Technology. This learning experience equipped Benny with a solid understanding of the subject. The dedicated teachers imparted both theory and practical knowledge, covering everything from environmental management to regulations education, laying a strong foundation of knowledge for his future career.
After graduation, Benny didn't stop his pursuit of knowledge. He set off to the University of Plymouth in United Kingdom to pursue a Bachelor of Environmental Science, broadening his international perspective which also inspired him to work overseas afterwards. It was during this time that he delved into environmental ethics, contemplating the interplay and connection between developments of human beings and the environment, and understanding the importance of sustainable development. In 2005, filled with passion and anticipation for the future, he returned to Hong Kong to embark on his career. He also completed his Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from local university later.
Stepping into the Professional World: A Broad Runway
Upon his return to Hong Kong from United Kingdom, Benny joined an environmental consultancy firm to turn his knowledge into practice. While participating in the environmental impact assessment work related to projects of transportation infrastructure, he found a strong interest in traffic planning, prompting him to actively delve into the subject and obtain new knowledge. With his high adaptability, he maintained an advantage in the workplace, ultimately leading to his successful entry into AECOM, one of largest global engineering consulting firm in 2008. This new opportunity allowed him to participate in transportation planning and important infrastructure projects in Hong Kong, including preliminary planning of Shatin to Central Link (currently the East Rail Line Cross-harbour Extension and Tuen Ma Line), enriching his experience.
Venturing into the Middle East: Paving Way through Yellow Sand
In 2012, there was a global recruitment within AECOM for professional personnel to work in Middle East. Benny had never set foot in the vast expanse of yellow sand, but he still bravely volunteered as he desired a breakthrough in his career, a chance to explore the world and a challenge to himself. With outstanding performance, he was chosen among five candidates to be stationed in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Looking back on his first arrival, the extreme climate in desert region, particularly sandstorms and nearly 50 degree Celsius day-time temperature, as well as completely different culture in Islamic country including fasting requirement during Ramadan, etc., presented a stark contrast to his upbringing in Hong Kong, and even United Kingdom. Benny believes an open and positive mindset is crucial when working overseas as it helps effectively to adapt and integrate into a new environment. He vividly shares the tips to survive in Middle East.
In his first three years in the UAE, Benny was working in Department of Transport of Abu Dhabi Government, where he participated in transportation infrastructure planning projects. As an Islamic country in Middle East, UAE is quite unique with different culture, weather, city planning concept and travel behaviour of residents with Hong Kong and other international cities. There are different considerations and concerns needed to be taken account into during any transportation planning works. Throughout the process, Benny learned intensively to address the challenges and gained valuable experience. Moreover, working with a diverse team of engineers from different nationalities honed his adaptability to various communication styles and management cultures. He said, "I was struggling at the very beginning to deal with different people in office, but after open and honest communication with them, I learned how to appreciate and respect our differences, which greatly enhanced trust and collaboration within the team." Benny's enthusiastic dedication and flexibility showcased the hard-working, resilient spirit of Hong Kong people, helping him to accumulate important working experience and reach key milestones of his career.
Starting in 2016, Benny returned to AECOM's Middle East headquarter and was promoted to Principle Transport Planner position, leading a team to provide mobility solutions for cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and NEOM etc.. With increasing global awareness on environmental protection, Benny utilised his knowledge in environmental science to provide professional advice in transport planning and infrastructure development across Middle East. For instance, he actively contributed to initiatives aimed in increasing the usage of electric vehicles, developing congestion charge and low emission zones to reduce carbon emissions, thereby enhancing transportation efficiency in the region while making significant contributions to environmental preservation.
Returning to Hong Kong: Moving Forward
After spending nearly a decade to work in Middle East, Benny decided to relocate back to Hong Kong at the end of 2021 due to family reasons. He picked up the role of Associate in Land Supply / Municipal (Traffic and Transport Planning) in Hong Kong AECOM Office. He had been involved in the government's Strategic Studies on Railways and Major Roads beyond 2030 Project and recently led his team in consultancy service of T4 Trunk Road in Sha Tin, leading to timely commencement of the project. With the ongoing development of Northern Metropolis, Benny believes that there will be upcoming opportunities of transportation projects in Hong Kong, offering a bright prospect in next few years and also longer term.
Embracing Challenges: Never Stop
Every single experience is a puzzle piece that ultimately forms a magnificent picture. Benny's journey demonstrates that infinite possibilities can be created if you are willing to try something new and take the challenges. There is advice he provided to all younger counterparts who are interested or planning in working overseas. Firstly, keep a proactive and enterprising attitude, actively seeking for opportunities. Secondly, stay positive and open-minded to establish a diverse network of relationships with different people. Starting with topics on food, sports, or travel would be always easier to open up conversations and improving interpersonal relationships. Thirdly, try to be flexible in handling situations and do not be afraid to sacrifice. He always adhere to the motto "Deliver what you commit," emphasizing the importance of following through on promises. He believes this not only embodies professional ethics but is also crucial in building trust and respect.
Benny's message to the younger generation is that through steadfast commitment to learning, maintaining confidence and fearlessly embracing challenges, the door of opportunity will be always open.
