Engineering Tomorrow: Ahmad Shahir’s Legacy in Building a Robust Technical Workforce

A good trainer does not only teach skills; they ignite potential. Ahmad Shahir Wan Arshad from Sime Industrial Academy has had a remarkable journey as a trainer. With over 3,000 training hours logged, he showcases an unwavering commitment towards empowering Malaysia's new generation of technical workforce.

Shahir's career in technical training began in 2006 when he earned his Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM) and Vocational Instructor Diploma (DPV) from the Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training (CIAST). His early experiences as an instructor laid the groundwork for his passion in becoming a technical educator.

In October 2008, he joined Sime Industrial Academy as a trainer, a move that expedited his professional growth. Starting with light vehicle training, his role rapidly expanded in the following years. By 2010, he was conducting critical Machine Operator Safety and Handling courses for heavy equipment like forklifts and excavators. Shahir’s dedication to professional development led him to specialise in agricultural machinery, where he coached complex tasks such as overhauling transmissions, engines and hydraulic systems, alongside training SKM Level 1-3 automotive courses. In 2019, he was entrusted to lead heavy machinery training – a testament to his expertise and the confidence placed in him by Sime leadership.

For Shahir, growth also means stepping outside your comfort zone. One of the biggest challenges that he faced was training senior technicians and executives, who possessed more field experience than he did.

"Initially, it was daunting. I overcame this by deepening my own knowledge before every session, mastering the technical materials and fostering an interactive environment where everyone could share experiences. This built mutual respect and showed the value I could add."

His drive for technical mastery was paid off when he acquired the prestigious Caterpillar D3500 Master Mechanic Course Accreditation, an achievement he takes great pride in. This rigorous program is a benchmark for global technical trainers.

"Alhamdulillah, I successfully completed it in July 2024, becoming the first trainer at Sime Industrial to achieve this accreditation,” he shared. “It was a challenging journey that has immensely strengthened my ability to guide and develop our trainees."

For Shahir, delivering world-class training must begin with a steadfast commitment to safety.

"In every session, trainee safety and wellbeing is a priority," he stated. "I ensure clear safety briefings, strict PPE adherence and close supervision during practical activities. This creates a disciplined, secure environment where they can confidently achieve their learning outcomes and cultivate a safety-first mindset for their careers."

His motivation stems from a deep sense of responsibility. "The key source of my motivation is the responsibility to impart knowledge and to see my trainees succeed. Witnessing them apply what they’ve learned in their workplaces brings immense satisfaction."

He credits his mentors at the Academy, En. Yuhanis, En. Zamzuri and En. Abdul Rahim, for their guidance and trust. This culture of support has been fundamental to his growth, providing a platform to refine his skills and contribute meaningfully to the industry.

Looking to the future, Shahir envisions a workforce skilled in adapting to new technologies such as automation and digitalisation, equipped with internationally recognised certifications and committed to lifelong learning.

"Ultimately, I hope technical careers gain equal recognition as other professions and are viewed as the prestigious and high-impact professional paths that they are," he said. "With the right support, I am confident we can develop a technical workforce that not only meet national needs but also excel on the global stage."

His advice for the next generation is simple yet powerful: "Master the fundamentals, never stop learning, challenge yourself and uphold the highest discipline. But most importantly, strive to be someone who benefits others and the industry. That is the true key to success."

Outside the workshop, Shahir enjoys hands-on work such as repairing cars and motorcycles, a hobby that keeps his own skills sharp, as well as sharing his passion for technical knowledge with his children to foster their early interest in the field.

As we celebrate Merdeka, we are reminded that the nation's progress is built by its people. Through his ample expertise and relentless resolve to bettering the technical workforce, Ahmad Shahir represents the very best of this national spirit: He not only builds skills but also actively shapes the next generation of resilient, knowledgeable and dedicated technical workforce.