HKIC invited Mr. CHAN Kim-kwong, Chairman of the Hong Kong Construction Subcontractors Association, to the Kwai Chung Campus for an inspiring exchange session with students and staff on 27 May 2026.

With over 50 years of experience in the construction industry, Mr. CHAN journeyed from a painting craftsman to an industry leader through sheer dedication and perseverance. Drawing from his own life story, he encouraged students by demonstrating that anyone can carve out their own successful career path with dedication, hard work, and strong principles. He emphasised that pursuing a skilled trade can absolutely lead to a bright and successful future.

During the session, Mr. CHAN used the "philosophy of plastering" as a metaphor to highlight the crucial importance of mastering fundamental skills. Comparing craftsmen to "wall doctors," he noted that only with a solid foundation can one find a true sense of achievement and professional recognition. He also reminded students to cultivate a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility, such as arriving on time and properly tidying up the worksite before leaving. He urged them to uphold the professional ethics taught at the Institute and never underestimate their own value when entering the workforce.

In the face of rapid technological advancement, Mr. CHAN encouraged students to embrace innovation. He pointed out that the industry is increasingly adopting smart robots to assist with painting. This not only boosts efficiency but also transfers high-risk and physically demanding tasks to machines, easing the burden on workers and achieving efficient, high-quality "human-machine collaboration."

Finally, Mr. CHAN reaffirmed the paramount importance of occupational safety, reminding students to always prioritise "Safety First" and never take unnecessary risks. He recommended doing proper stretching exercises before starting work to prevent injuries. Sharing his own habit of regular exercise, he encouraged students to care for their physical and mental well-being while working hard, and inspired everyone to give back to the community by actively participating in CIC volunteer services.