The aspiration to make cars is the challenge at Nissan.
“My desire to challenge myself again led me to work at an automaker.” That’s what prompted my career move to Nissan. There are two main reasons. First, I want to develop myself by engaging in more complex, challenging tasks. Second, I became increasingly attracted to cars themselves.
In my previous job, I was responsible for developing optical devices and inverter products for automotive applications at a materials manufacturer. I enjoyed fulfilling days working on these projects, but as I collaborated with finished vehicle manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers, I gradually admired their attitude of working together with many colleagues toward ambitious goals in car manufacturing.
Additionally, having a family and owning a car made me realize how many precious memories are created within that private space. I wanted to be more involved in creating spaces that foster such memories. During the COVID-19 pandemic, working from home prompted me to reconsider my career and family time. Besides Nissan’s technological strength, the company’s global culture of valuing diversity and the expanding growth opportunities were also key factors in my decision.
Leading Innovation in Next-Generation Batteries with Colleagues
Currently, I am responsible for prototype manufacturing of all-solid-state batteries, which are attracting attention as the next-generation energy storage solution. We utilize multiple dedicated dry rooms and work tirelessly day and night in collaboration with colleagues. From this fiscal year, I have been entrusted with managing the entire trial production process as a deputy section chief.
Specifically, I support resolving issues faced by process engineers and coordinate quality and shipment plans with other departments to ensure smooth progress from material acceptance to prototype production and shipment. Close cooperation with design and development teams sometimes leads to differences in opinions regarding target values, problem-solving priorities, and result interpretation. I find that these discussions are worthwhile, and the experience gained from such collaboration is also being used to resolve technical challenges on the large-scale pilot line at the Yokohama Plant.
Work and Family Connected - Nissan’s Unique Environment and Motivation
It’s been four years since I joined Nissan, and I still sometimes think, “I’m glad I work for this company.” There are countless challenges in cutting-edge development, but Nissan provides resources and an environment that enable us to face these challenges head-on and dedicate ourselves fully.
In addition to battery specialists, I work closely with engineers from various fields supporting Nissan, as well as colleagues who joined mid-career, and partner companies. The excellent training programs and educational systems help us steadily develop both technical and general skills.
What I realized after changing jobs is that my family now understands and relates more to my work. When my children ask, “Where did you make the car today?” or when my 4-year-old daughter shed tears as she said goodbye to our new Serena, I feel once again how manufacturing connects deeply with people’s feelings and memories. I am truly proud to be involved in creating cars that are more than just industrial products—they are spaces that foster family memories and emotional bonds.
Expanding Your Options and Growing in a Global Company
As a production engineering professional, I still have much to learn. Moving forward, I want to continue solving problems from a broader perspective through battery development and contribute to creating more attractive products.
I also feel that working at Nissan, where a diverse range of people from around the world gather, has greatly expanded my career options. I have an environment where I can take on challenges outside of batteries and production technology, and I want to further broaden my potential by consulting with colleagues and superiors.
Finally, I believe everyone faces a gap between their career plans and reality. Job-hopping takes energy and can involve conflicts, but Nissan has a system that welcomes people from diverse backgrounds and supports them in making the most of their abilities. If you want to challenge yourself on the global stage, I highly recommend Nissan.
