| COUNTRY |
| Indonesia |
| EDUCATION |
| Mechanical Engineering, Coventry University, and Aerospace Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) |
| COMPANY |
| Manufacture and sale of industrial machine knives, tools, machine tools and machine parts |
| SUMMARY |
| A young engineer’s journey from Indonesia to Japan is highlighted, detailing his educational background in mechanical and aerospace engineering, participation in design contests, and formative experiences in Japan. Through FAST OFFER International, he pursued free Japanese language classes and mentorship to secure job interviews with Japanese companies. His success gets him closer to his dream of enjoying the best of both worlds: a fast-paced engineering career and the serene countryside life in Japan. |
Enjoying Fireworks in Japan as a 4-Year-Old Thanks To My Dad’s Engineering Career
My family and I lived in Nagaoka, Japan from when I was three until four years old to accompany my dad who was taking Engineering masters there. I may have been extremely young, but it was a formative time with memories that still live with me today. One time, I got lost during a snow event, yet somehow, my parents safely found me. I also remember sprawling out on a picnic blanket with my family as we stared at the glorious night sky exploding with fireworks. Nagaoka just so happens to be known for its Hanabi festival. Returning to Indonesia, my affection for Japan remained as I took in more Japanese music, movies, and anime through the years.
How FOMO Got Me Two Engineering Degrees: Mechanical & Aerospace
Perhaps experiencing Japan thanks to my engineer father’s scholarship became part of why I wanted to follow in his footsteps. At first, I wanted to study in Japan, but when I couldn’t find a scholarship, I did the next best thing. I chose the best local university for engineering: Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB). Perhaps, I thought, if I did well in my studies, I could work in Japan instead.
During that time, I encountered an exciting presentation about a course exclusive to my university: Aerospace Engineering. They talked about aircraft, rocket ships, and outer space—things too interesting for me to miss out on. Without sacrificing my mechanical engineering degree, I took it as a second degree.
Joining Engineering Design Contests in College
I got to take part in designing contests during my time in college that gave my profile an edge but also actual experience.
We got to design an Electric Motorcycle and ride the prototype for the local PLN ICE Competition. We didn’t win but it was a great experience because I got to see my design come to life. I got to win at the ASHRAE Design Competition with an Indoor Air Quality Health Meter. It was surreal to have something on paper turn into a tangible product. That contest even sent me to Chicago to present the product, and on the way a 14-hour layover trip to Japan.
Japan: A Melting Pot for Engineers From All Over The World
Getting to see the fast-paced, bustling Tokyo metropolitan was fascinating. It was so different from my childhood memories in Nagaoka. I realized then as well, that eventually I would want to work in the countryside, living slowly, but somehow still taking part in innovative tech.
An ITB senior of mine who joined FAST OFFER International told me about the program. I went to an information session that showed me my dream was just within my reach.
I learned Japan was one of the best places to become an engineer and there were plenty of opportunities for aspiring Indonesians like me. Japan was bursting with opportunities even for foreigners. There were openings even in well-established, leading, large, Japanese, tech companies where I could easily climb the ladder. There, alongside local and international talents, we could all work together practicing Japanese work ethic and excellence, growing exponentially.
The Best of Both Worlds: My Dream to Enjoy Both Fast Tech and Slow Nature
On top of the career potential in the tech and manufacturing industry, Japan also held another gem for me: a countryside life. Only in Japan can I be part of an exciting, booming tech industry and still come home to a peaceful, slow, rural life. Thanks to Japan’s trains that stretch to nearly every corner, bustling cityscapes can easily coexist with rural landscapes.
ITB X FAST OFFER International Free Japanese Classes During My Final Year at University
The best thing I got from that information session though was a clear next step towards my dream: FAST OFFER International’s free Japanese classes! I’m thankful that the session not only inspired me with a dream, but they also paved the way. I was already taking two degrees, so it was nice to take an extra class that I didn’t have to pay for. Starting from zero, I learned enough Japanese to take on Japanese interviews in just eight months thanks to these classes.
It helped that the class was very interactive and fun. We focused on building our foundation with JLPT N5-N4 classes at first. In the last leg of learning Japanese though, we concentrated on our conversation skills.
Overcoming Self-Doubt & Starting My Job Hunt for an Engineering Position in Japan
Because the classes were under FAST OFFER International, as soon as I finished classes, before I even had JLPT N3 level Japanese, as soon as the teachers saw I was ready, I could jump into job hunting. They talked to me about the kind of work I wanted to do and the field I wanted to enter, and they used that to match me with the right companies.
To be honest, when FAST OFFER International said I was ready for Japanese job interviews, I didn’t quite believe them. My peers in the same interview batch all had JLPT N3 or even N2 certification. However, they told me my profile attracted three companies who wanted to interview me in person in Japan. Having a mechanical and aerospace engineering degree, and real experience building my designs, helped attract companies to my profile. This means I qualified to fly to Japan for free for the interviews.
I wouldn’t say I’m a pessimist, but realistically, I felt out of my depth. These were some big companies that deeply aligned with my career goals. One was even located in Nagoya, a location primed to be an aerospace engineering hub. It felt too good to be true. At the same time, it was an extremely hectic season with my final-year project happening. FAST OFFER International assured me I could pass on the opportunities now and sign up for the next batch. I could even take some of the interviews online.
However, I’m the type not to let great opportunities pass! I’m the type to embrace the odds, join contests, get a second degree, and make the best of every opportunity that comes my way. Now was not the time to miss out. How could I say “No”? It was simply in my nature to say “Yes”!
The Secret to Successful Japanese Job Interviews Beyond Learning Japanese: Mentorship
I did my best learning Japanese, doing well with my mechanical and aerospace engineering degrees, but those didn’t guarantee success. Make no mistake: you need to speak Japanese during these interviews! But what determined my success were the mentorship sessions courtesy of FAST OFFER International.
Once I was ready for the job hunt with just enough Japanese speaking skills, FAST OFFER International assigned me a highly experienced mentor. These mentors usually have a similar engineering background to you but with tons, and tons of experience with Japanese companies. Some mentors are seniors at major Japanese companies, and some have already retired.
My mentor spent hours one-on-one with me running possible questions, helping edit my answers, and teaching me Japanese etiquette and ways of thinking. As we did mock interviews, they gave me personalized advice I could immediately apply.
My Experience Interviewing in Japan for Job Interviews
As our plane landed around nine or ten pm, I could barely see Japan. There was barely time to absorb that I was even in Japan. We went to the hotel, did orientations, and started the job interviews in quick succession. Every moment I was free, I spent reviewing for the interviews. I appreciate that condensed structure, as it kept me focused. There was simply no time to be nervous or distracted.
At the interviews, a lot of the questions we prepared for came up. With every passing interview, I felt my nervousness fall away and my confidence build. Everything just went smoothly. I got to the final interview for two companies, and just half an hour after my very last interview I got the news: I got two job offers!
It all happened so fast—very on-brand for FAST OFFER International! I didn’t have to anxiously wait for days between interviews or nervously wait for the results. Everything happened so dizzyingly fast! Even as I absorbed the news, it all felt too good to be true, but somehow it was true! It was unbelievable. Something I’d dreamt and worked for, for so long, all coming to fruit in a snap. The emotions only began to flood in once I was relaxing in my hotel.
Choosing The Right Japanese Company For a Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Graduate Like Me
Usually, I would take in as much as I could without giving anything up. This time though, obviously I could only choose one company! I found that so stressful! They were both great companies in the manufacturing industry and I had to choose one of them in the next 14 days. Unlike choosing a second degree, I can’t work at two companies. But I guess that’s a good problem, right?
I discussed it a lot with my parents. I compared what they were manufacturing, how big the company was, the location, and the position offered. After much thought, I chose the company with the bigger career growth potential, manufacturing items I’m more interested in, and was located somewhere I hadn’t seen before. There, I’m sure, I’ll be able to use my degree in Mechanical and Aerospace engineering to my advantage.
My Future in Japan as a Mechanical and Aerospace Engineer
Now that I’ve reached my first goal of getting a job in Japan as an Indonesian, my next goal is to get permanent residency in Japan! I’m committed for the long run.
I’m looking forward to growing my life and career there. From climbing the career ladder to exploring all Japan has to offer from hiking locations to delectable dishes—I want it all. The best part about Japan is the mobility: both in the way you can move up in your career and in the way you can easily travel from one end of Japan to the other thanks to their transportation infrastructure. Right now, I have all these possibilities waiting to happen and who knows what will happen when I get there? What I am sure of is that I will continue to follow my nature: seize every opportunity that comes my way!
I look forward not just to the tourist aspects of Japan but also to starting a meaningful adult life there. When I get there, I hope I improve my Japanese, excel in my career, and maybe even find a girlfriend!
FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: The Aerospace Engineering Industry in Japan: A Rising Star
Technological Foundation and Key Players
Japan’s aerospace engineering industry is rapidly evolving, with major companies like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries leading the way in aircraft, helicopters, missiles, rockets, and satellites[1].
Focus on Sustainability and Space Exploration
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is at the forefront of sustainability and space exploration, conducting cutting-edge research and international collaborations[1].
Innovative Private Sector Contributions
Private companies like Astroscale are pioneering solutions for space debris removal, highlighting Japan’s commitment to a sustainable space environment[2].
Regional Collaboration and Global Impact
The Aichi-Nagoya Aerospace Consortium fosters collaboration between government, industry, and academia, producing key components for Boeing jets and rockets[2].
Encouraging International Talent
Japan’s aerospace industry welcomes international talent, offering opportunities for career growth, professional development, and cultural exchange. Engineers, researchers, and professionals from around the world can contribute to groundbreaking projects and collaborate with leading experts[3].
Conclusion: Infinity and Beyond
Japan’s aerospace engineering industry exemplifies technological innovation and collaboration. With continued investment and a focus on sustainability, Japan is set to soar to new heights in the aerospace sector.
