Beyond the BTU: Activate Delta's True Power Source with the 'Inner Glow' Protocol

When you look at a towering city skyscraper, all lighting, air quality, surveillance systems, and commanding presence, you see an architectural marvel. However, for Jacob Sng, Delta’s SEA Platform Head for Building Automation, he sees a living, breathing ecosystem. His curiosity about how these giants manage to keep thousands of people perfectly comfortable, day after day, is the spark that ignited his career.

This month, we explore Jacob’s "Inner Glow," diving into the passion that fuels his leadership, his commitment to sustainability, and the surprisingly simple light source that keeps his path bright.

The Unconventional Light Source

Jacob’s guiding light is not a sunset or a spotlight; it's something far more personal and constant: his mum's smile.

"You can automate a lot of things, but you can’t automate genuine warmth," Jacob shares. "Her unwavering positivity and encouragement have lit up my path more reliably than any dimmer switch. That constant, beautiful smile is the inspiration that brightens my life and reminds me of the power of genuine human connection."

This deep-seated value of warmth and connection is precisely what drove Jacob into the world of Building Automation. Standing beneath those colossal buildings years ago, He realized the ultimate challenge went beyond construction; it was about people. "Some people prefer cooler temperatures, others warmer, lighting, humidity... comfort means something different to every single person inside," he explains. "I was fixated on finding the 'brain' that manages it all balancing maximum comfort with energy efficiency. That blend of technology and sustainability to create smarter spaces is what pulled me in, and that initial spark still drives me every day."

The Brightest Shine: Mentoring Future Leaders

While Jacob manages complex regional platforms today, his moment of greatest fulfillment came from a very human success story.

More than 20 years ago, while leading a service team, Jacob coached a dynamic, energetic young man named Remy. "I took immense pride in mentoring my team," he recalls. "When Remy was ready to step up, I entrusted him with my own role and promoted him."

For Jacob, this was his brightest glow moment. It wasn't about the job title he held; it was about knowing he had successfully groomed the next leader to step up, take ownership, and drive business excellence. He firmly believes his leadership should act as a spotlight on potential. "Everyone has leadership potential within them," he asserts. "They just need a chance to lead and shine. I empower them, urge them to think three to five years ahead, and help them take those first steps toward that vision."

Staying Grounded: The Sky and the Storms

In an industry defined by complexity, Jacob’s symbol for his inner light is deceptively simple: The Sky. It’s vast, ever-changing, yet provides a quiet sense of permanence and perspective. It’s a constant reminder to aim high, even when the inevitable storms roll in.

When faced with difficult days, Jacob’s habit is to disconnect and reboot. "I remind myself to stay focused and calm," he says. "I take a deliberate step back to reflect, regroup, and return with a completely clear mindset." This philosophy underpins his belief that every storm will eventually pass. A clear head, he knows, is an unstoppable force.

So where does he recharge after those long days? "My work is exhausting, but being home with my family, seeing my wife and kids safe and healthy, and greeted by their smiles is a total energy recharge," he smiles. "Those moments remind me why I do what I do and keep me grounded. And of course, not forgetting my Empress Gin with a slice of cucumber... it’s the perfect, distilled way to unwind and reflect."

A Message for Delta: Aim High and Stay Connected

Reflecting on his journey, Jacob notes his younger self would be proud of the consistent trust he placed in his team fostering a culture where accountability and open communication thrived.

His ultimate message for his colleagues across Delta is a powerful one:

"Find the joy in the work you do. Let passion guide your actions, let ambition fuel your goals, and never hesitate to aim high. The path won’t always be smooth but stay positive. Even the toughest days will pass, and there’s always light ahead. And remember this: you are never alone. We are in this together."

Jacob Sng’s story is a powerful reminder that while we automate buildings for peak efficiency, we must also optimize our teams for peak potential. In every leadership decision, he proves that real leaders don't shine for others, they act as the system that illuminates the path, ensuring everyone has the clarity and freedom to shine brilliantly on their own. It is this 'Inner Glow' of trust and empowerment that ultimately drives innovation across Delta.

About the Author (Editorial Team)

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