Indian by Birth, Taiwanese by Heart

Could you briefly tell us about yourself?

My name is Saurabh Patel and I am from India. I was brought up and educated in Mumbai, my home city. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Electronics Engineering, with a major in Process Instrumentation. This year marks the 20th anniversary of my work as an Instrumentation Engineer. In these 20 years, I have worked in several industries: Material Handling (bulk material conveying), Water Treatment, Fire & Gas, Petrochemicals, and Oil & Gas. In CTCI, I work in the Instrumentation and Control System Engineering Department (11th Floor). My job involves working both in HQ, Taipei as well as at job sites. My most recent job site was LR2 Refinery, Qatar, where I stayed for little over a year. I am currently assigned to LIWA project.

What made you join CTCI?

I joined CTCI in March 2005. I was a part of a 20-engineer team that CTCI hired from India. My joining CTCI was not planned but can be described as a master stroke of destiny. At that time, I was looking for a job in an EPC company and my agent (headhunter) referred me to CTCI. All I knew about CTCI was it was an EPC company and so I applied for the job. CTCI interviewed and then shortlisted me, and eventually offered me a job in its HQ in Taipei. I was actually looking for an overseas job in the Middle East. Somehow God deleted the word “Middle” and I landed in the East (Taiwan). I have been with CTCI since then (12 years and counting).

Could you share some interesting experience you had when working in CTCI?

It was back in 2005, my first time working overseas in an international company. I was miles away from home, and work pressure and expectations were high. But I remember my LE played it very cool. He made us (my colleague and me) feel comfortable at work – patiently listening and explaining, and correcting when we were wrong. That really helped us improve and grow. Apart from work, he took the time to tell us about places where we could travel during weekends, even helping with the transport details. This gesture from my leader impressed so much that I would like to do the same for every newcomer to the office. Like they say, the first impression is the last impression.

How do you get rid of work stress?

Working in an engineering field often gets stressful. We have limited time to complete mountains of work, but somehow manage to deliver on time. To beat work pressure, I often join my friends for movies, bicycle rides, meals or travel. Taiwan has an amazing network of bicycle paths and riverside parks are the best place to ride bicycles. And with “U” bike, it’s more convenient now. Another way to relax is through exercise. Every park is equipped with basic machines for exercise. I do use them when I get the chance. The best stress reliever for me is travelling around Taiwan. Taiwan is one small island country but has endless beauty which I am still exploring.

Could you give us some examples about Taiwanese culture and people that you are impressed with?

Having lived more than a decade in Taiwan says it all. It’s the affection, love and kindness of Taiwanese, which is incomparable. 

When I arrived in 2005, I did not know that I would get along with Taiwanese so easily. It all started when I found a friend 吳佳燕 and because of her, I have a few close and good friends. Being a foreigner, my friends took care of me. Wherever they went, whatever they did, I was always a part of them. I never felt like a foreigner. That’s how I first knew that Taiwanese are kind, helpful and wonderful by heart.

Back in 2005, 吳佳燕 invited me to visit her hometown, “Ruifang”. That short trip turned out to be a life changer. I met her family and little did I know that I will eventually be so connected to her family that they will treat me like a family member. I am Indian by birth but because of them, I am Taiwanese by heart.