Following in My Father’s Footsteps: A Quarter-Century Journey
U-san, can you briefly describe your job?
As a section manager, I oversee personnel and projects within my section. This includes conveying topics discussed and decisions made in internal meetings to onsite workers and assigning staff to projects. Currently, we have more than 60 ongoing projects, and my role involves managing these projects, addressing issues proactively, and ensuring budgetary control for each project.
When and why did you choose to work at AEC?
I became acquainted with AEC through my father, who worked here as an electrical engineer. When I was a child, he occasionally brought me along, allowing me to observe his work, and I became familiar with the Company. I joined the Company in 1997, so it’s my 27th year now (at the time of the interview).
The lively corporate atmosphere infused with American culture that has been passed down.
You have a 27-year-long career at this company. What motivated you to stay for so long?
When I joined the Company, we had fewer than 200 employees. Over the years, the size of the Company has grown to over 1,000 employees. During my long career, I've had moments where I considered a career change. However, since I joined my current department, there has been a lot to learn, and my interest has not waned. Now, I find myself in my 27th year.
While one of the key reasons why I've remained with the Company for so long is because I enjoy the work I do, equally important are the good relationships I've built with my colleagues and managers. Additionally, I appreciate the unique atmosphere at our company, which blends friendliness and openness typical of foreign-affiliated companies with an old-fashioned culture of earnestness and honesty. These factors have all contributed to my long career here.
Recently, our company has been transitioning to a more corporate-like organization in a positive manner, with younger colleagues joining us, the implementation of an evaluation system, and an increase in base pay. Nevertheless, we have maintained our lively corporate atmosphere infused with American culture that has been passed down.
When do you find your job enjoyable and at what kind of moment do you get a sense of accomplishment in working?
I had the opportunity to work at our Iwakuni office for two years as a project manager some time ago. It was a valuable experience, filled with rewarding and exciting moments. During that period, my role wasn't that of a manager but a site representative. I learned about the differences in perspectives and business approaches between Okinawa and mainland Japan, as well as other aspects I wouldn't have encountered in Okinawa. Through my work during this business trip, I felt personal growth and gained valuable experience.
At last year’s year-end party, I was awarded for my achievements during the business trip. I was delighted to realize that the Company recognized my work.
The corporate culture encourages mutual support and embrace everyone’s personality and unique character.
What do you like about working at AEC?
It’s the unique experiences offered here that you can't find in other typical construction companies. I particularly find it exciting to be surrounded by English conversations at both the worksite and in the office. When I joined the Company, I didn't understand English, but now I can read English drawings, communicate through English emails, and have simple conversations in English.
We have a training gym in the Company available for employees to use before work and on weekends, which contributes to the health management of many employees. Furthermore, the Company supports various internal club activities like the motorcycle touring club and movie club to enhance communication among employees, which we all enjoy. These facilities and activities are one of the benefits unique to AEC.
The English communication skills I acquired during the business trip became a source of confidence for me.
I heard that you were not confident in English before. How about now?
During my time at the Iwakuni office, I overcame my hesitation in using English. In Okinawa, before going to Iwakuni, our coordinators supported me when I needed assistance with English. However, during the business trip, interpretation support was limited. As a result, I had to handle contracts and communicate with overseas business partners in English on my own. It was challenging, but these experiences boosted my confidence, and now I can comfortably communicate via email and in conversations in English.
We welcome friendly and considerate individuals to join our team.
U-san, what kind of person would be a perfect fit to work in your team?
Those who are friendly and considerate would fit well into our team. Our work mainly involves projects for U.S. bases and facilities, which require unconventional approaches compared to business in other companies. In this regard, individuals who can work flexibly and cooperatively, and possess strong interpersonal skills, would be well-suited for our work.
Can you leave a message to potential job applicants?
It's common for new members to feel overwhelmed when they find themselves in an environment where English conversations are prevalent, especially among those who have joined our company from other construction firms. However, as they receive support from their colleagues and work together, eventually, they adapt to our company culture.
We don’t enforce strict codes for hairstyles and embrace everyone’s personality and unique character, making it easier for younger generations to adapt to our company. Additionally, experienced employees who have joined us from other companies are actively engaged in their work. It's a great place to leverage your accumulated experience. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Schedule for one day
- AM 8:00 Work commences
- Check emails
- Manage the budget for each order sheet
- PM 12:00 Lunch-break
- PM 13:00 Inquire about issues at each worksite /Offer suggestions
- Have discussions with US Military Personnel (as needed)
- PM 17:00 End of a Workday