KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 – A seminar on precision engineering was presented by Hideki Ogata, Adjunct Professor in the Department of Mechanical Precision Engineering at the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). The seminar took place in Seminar Room 2 at MJIIT and was attended by staff and students. Since 2022, Ogata has served as the General Manager of the Technology Platform Center at IHI Corporation in Tokyo, Japan. He is recognized as one of the leading experts in the Aero Engine, Space, and Defense Business Area at IHI Corporation.
The seminar began with a welcoming address by Dr. Uswah Khairuddin, the Head of the Department of Mechanical Precision Engineering at MJIIT. She introduced Hideki Ogata, who had visited MJIIT from December 17 to 21, 2024, for meetings and laboratory tours.
A brief biography of Hideki Ogata reveals that he received his degree in mechanical engineering from Kyoto University, Japan, in 1994. After graduation, he began working at IHI Corporation, previously known as Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. The name ‘IHI Corporation’ became official in 2007. Additionally, Ogata is a fellow of the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers (JSME) and serves on the Board of Directors for the Japanese Society of Tribologists (JAST). He is an expert in tribology, a specialized field focusing on the science and technology of friction, wear, and lubrication between surfaces in relative motion.
During the seminar, Ogata discussed the business sectors and technological advancements led by IHI Corporation. The company operates across four main sectors: resources, energy, and environment; social infrastructure; industrial systems and general-purpose machinery; and aero engines, space, and defense. He emphasized the company’s commitment to providing advanced engineering solutions for the aerospace and defence industries. For example, IHI designs and manufactures components for jet engines and collaborates with global engine manufacturers like GE, Rolls-Royce, and Pratt & Whitney.
Ogata also highlighted IHI’s focus on eco-friendly technologies, such as fuel-efficient engines and reusable rocket components, and its ongoing innovation in high-precision engineering, encompassing aerodynamics, materials science, and energy efficiency. This discussion intrigued the audience, which consisted mainly of undergraduate students pursuing degrees in mechanical precision engineering at MJIIT.
IHI Corporation is at the forefront of sustainability for the environment and humanity, aiming to “Create a world where nature and technology work in unity.” As Mr. Ogata mentioned, approximately 400 engineers are currently employed at IHI Corporation, and the company typically hires engineering graduates with at least a master’s degree. Higher-level education equips engineers with the deep technical knowledge and research skills essential for innovation, allowing them to tackle complex challenges effectively.
Engineers with advanced degrees are better prepared to understand, develop, and implement cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Moreover, higher education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, enabling engineers to creatively and effectively address complex engineering problems. Investing in well-educated engineers ensures that companies like IHI Corporation remain competitive, innovative, and capable of delivering high-quality, technologically advanced solutions.
Ogata discussed the mindset of outstanding engineers, which is shaped by a combination of core principles and attitudes. A strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to ethical practices are essential, as engineers play a critical role in society through their contributions to infrastructure, safety, and innovation. Additionally, a dedication to continuous learning is vital in light of the rapid technological advancements in the field. Staying updated on the latest knowledge and skills ensures that engineers remain relevant and effective.
Teamwork and communication skills are equally important, as engineering projects often involve collaboration with diverse teams. Engineers must excel in working cohesively with others to achieve common goals. Another key attribute is problem-solving ability, which requires flexible thinking and analytical skills to address the complex and dynamic challenges frequently encountered in the profession.
Finally, prioritizing safety is a fundamental aspect of the engineering mindset. In designing products and systems that directly impact lives and the environment, engineers must ensure high levels of safety and maintain constant awareness of potential hazards. This focus helps them achieve reliable and secure outcomes.
These combined traits define the mindset of a successful engineer and pave the way for impactful contributions to the world.
As precision engineering increasingly becomes essential for engineering efficiency, Ogata, a mechanical engineer, discussed the concept of ‘Mechanical Precision Engineering.’ This sub-field of mechanical engineering focuses on the design and manufacturing of machines and components that require high precision and accuracy. This specialization is particularly important in heavy industries, where there are numerous opportunities to make significant advancements, all beginning with precise design and manufacturing to effectively address technological challenges.
During the seminar, students were exposed to IHI Corporation, which operates in advanced technology sectors such as aerospace, energy, infrastructure, and heavy industries. This exposure aims to inspire students and renew their commitment to excellence in their studies.
To conclude the seminar, Dr. Uswah invited Prof. Kanao Fukuda, Deputy Dean for Liaison and Internationalization at MJIIT, to present Ogata with a token of appreciation. The staff and students of MJIIT and UTM expressed their gratitude for Ogata’s invaluable efforts in sharing his knowledge, experience, and wisdom, especially with young, aspiring engineers. We hope to see Ogata again in the future. The seminar wrapped up with a group photo session.
