This year marks a remarkable milestone for one of our dedicated team members—Don Ramos recently celebrated his 10-year work anniversary at iPS. From humble beginnings to becoming a key figure in our operations, Don’s journey is a testament to growth, resilience, and commitment. We sat down with Don to reflect on his decade-long career and the experiences that have shaped his path.
How has your career at iPS evolved over the past 10 years?
Don: “When I started at iPS, I was in an entry-level position, eager to learn and grow. Over the years, I’ve taken on more responsibilities, developed new skills, and received valuable training that helped me advance. Today, I serve as a Medior Support Officer, where I support new team members, improve workflows, and ensure smooth and safe operations. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and grateful for the trust and support iPS has given me.”
What are the biggest changes or innovations you’ve seen at iPS?
“One of the most impactful changes has been the improvement in our IT systems. We transitioned from one system to another, and from using Word and Excel to now working with an internal system. These tools have made our work faster, more organized, and goal-oriented. iPS has also placed a strong emphasis on training and development, giving us more opportunities to grow professionally.”
Can you share a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame it?
“Every project comes with its own set of challenges, but I’ve learned to stay calm and rely on teamwork. Good communication and following the right steps have always helped us overcome obstacles and deliver results on time.”
What do you enjoy most about working at iPS?
“I truly enjoy the opportunity to grow and learn. iPS supports us with training and new challenges. As a Filipino working abroad, having kind and helpful colleagues feels like having a second family. The positive work environment and good benefits make me feel valued and motivated to stay for the long term.”
Can you highlight a career achievement you’re especially proud of?
“One of my proudest moments was when I served as the only CBO in Dubai for the Middle East Department. My colleague was on leave, and I had to manage everything on my own—supporting three recruiters, two consultants, and five client vessels. I worked overtime and even on weekends to ensure everything was handled efficiently. It was a challenging time, but it showed my dedication and ability to perform under pressure.”
What do you like to do in your free time?
“In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, playing mobile and computer games, and playing the guitar. I also love having video calls with my family back in the Philippines—it helps me relax and stay connected with them.”
Congratulations, Don, on this incredible milestone! Your journey is an inspiration to all of us at iPS. Thank you for your hard work, loyalty, and the positive energy you bring to the team every day.