Home > Sustainability > Social > Advancing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Kajima Group > Voices from Our People > Devin Gunawan

VOICE

A Company that Provides
Equal Support and
Opportunities to Everyone

Devin Gunawan

Civil Structures Group
Kajima Technical Research Institute

From Indonesia
Joined Kajima Corporation, Kajima Technical Research Institute, 2020

01

As a Member of “Technical Kajima”

Could you describe your current work?

I have been working at the Kajima Technical Research Institute for six years since joining the company. My specialty is concrete structures in civil engineering. Currently, I am focusing on developing technologies to improve productivity in concrete construction through mechanization and automation, as well as technologies for the maintenance and management of structures using advanced sensors. I propose new technologies, conduct experiments to verify their effectiveness, and work toward applying them at construction sites.

What made you decide to join Kajima?

I had heard that Japan has world-class technical capabilities, and that was what first made me want to study at a Japanese university. I became interested in building infrastructure that supports people’s daily lives and majored in civil engineering at university.
In my third year, I participated in an internship at Kajima, where I was able to visit construction sites and the Kajima Technical Research Institute. I was strongly impressed by the scale of the structures being built and the high level of technology that supports them. I was also struck by how sincerely and thoughtfully the employees responded to every question I asked. I felt that working in such an environment would help me grow, which is why I decided to join Kajima.

02

A Workplace that Continues to Pursue Better Workability

Did you notice any gap between your expectations before joining and the reality after joining?

Before joining the company, I had some concerns about communicating in Japanese and adapting to professional working life. However, once I started working here, I found that communication is not a problem as long as we take the time to talk things through. In terms of working style, we have flexible systems such as telework and flextime, which allow for greater flexibility. With ongoing digitalization and the introduction of new tools to improve efficiency, I feel that it is a comfortable place to work.

03

Careful Support for Each Employee

Have you ever faced any challenges as an employee who grew up overseas?

Work at a general contractor often involves coordinating with many different stakeholders. Writing polite and concise emails in Japanese and clearly explaining work details to partner companies took some time to get used to. In those situations, my supervisors and senior colleagues provided guidance and support. I feel this reflects the company’s commitment to supporting its employees, rather than treating those from overseas differently.

Is there anything you consciously keep in mind in your work, given your background?

I try to stay aware of changes in the global situation and global trends in construction technologies, including civil engineering. I actively read overseas articles and academic papers and share relevant information with my colleagues. During discussions, I also try to contribute by offering perspectives that may differ from others, which can lead to new ideas.

MESSAGE

A Company that Provides Equal Opportunities

I feel that Kajima is a company that provides equal opportunities to those who make an effort. In order to succeed, I believe it is important to actively communicate your strengths and potential.

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