AST: Building a Thriving Culture with CHOYS

For Advanced Substrate Technologies (AST), a leading manufacturer in Singapore’s semiconductor industry, success isn’t just about cutting-edge technology, it’s about the people who make it happen. That’s why AST is redefining what it means to care for employees, partnering with CHOYS to bring wellbeing, engagement, and connection into the workplace.

In this case study, we explore how AST has built a thriving workplace culture by integrating CHOYS’s employee wellbeing solutions, showing how even the most high-pressure industries can become environments where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered.

About AST

Advanced Substrate Technologies Pte Ltd (AST) is a proud subsidiary of TOPPAN Holdings Inc., a Japanese leader in innovative printing and advanced manufacturing solutions. AST has set itself apart as the first factory in Singapore to manufacture high-end Flip Chip Ball Grid Array (FC-BGA) substrates, a critical component for cutting-edge semiconductor products.

AST’s HR leadership team, led by Shirley Siew, recognises the vital role employee wellbeing plays in organisational success. As the Head of HR shared:
"By fostering a culture of wellbeing, I can ensure that employees feel valued, supported, and motivated. This ultimately enhances productivity and reduces turnover, while attracting top talent and building a positive organisational culture that benefits both employees and AST."

Why Wellbeing Matters at AST

When asked about the importance of employee wellbeing in the manufacturing sector, AST’s Head of HR, Shirley Siew emphasised the direct correlation between wellbeing and organisational success:

"In HR, we recognise that employees are the backbone of any business. Their mental and physical health affects their engagement, productivity, and overall satisfaction at work. By prioritising wellbeing, we create a supportive environment where employees feel empowered to thrive. This not only reduces absenteeism and turnover but also fosters a culture of loyalty and innovation."

AST has made wellbeing a strategic priority to ensure that its workforce remains engaged and motivated, even in a high-paced, precision-driven industry.

Here is what Shirley Siew, Senior Manager of Human Resources, AST has to say about CHOYS:

Solution: How CHOYS Helped AST?

Partnering with CHOYS gave AST access to a wide range of tools designed to make wellbeing practical, engaging, and rewarding.

Key Features Implemented

1. CHOYS Mood Tracker: Employees could track their moods daily, uncovering patterns that helped them better understand their long-term wellbeing.
   • Employees earned CHOYSCoins for staying consistent, which they could use to make donations to social causes.

1. CHOYS Step Challenges and Duels: Walking and fitness became fun through monthly step competitions and one-on-one duels, creating a sense of friendly rivalry while encouraging physical activity.
2. CHOYS Manual of You: Employees shared fun, personal details about themselves through digital profiles, making it easy for colleagues to connect beyond workplace roles.
3. CHOYS Recognitions: Employees gave each other shout-outs for their achievements, fostering a culture of appreciation and positivity.
4. CHOYS Impacts and Coins: By earning CHOYSCoins for healthy actions, employees could contribute to meaningful CSR initiatives, combining personal wellbeing with social good.
5. Moment Wall and Leaderboards: Celebrating wins and tracking progress became part of the workplace culture, spreading motivation and camaraderie.
6. PERMA Survey: AST measured five core elements of wellbeing, Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment using our PERMA Survey. It helped leaders to continuously improve employee satisfaction.

Impact and Outcomes

The numbers speak volumes about how AST employees embraced the CHOYS platform:

• 20,771,303 steps tracked: Employees moved a priority, collectively walking the equivalent of halfway around the earth.
• 1,891 habits tracked: A consistent focus on healthy practices like hydration, mindfulness, and daily exercise.
• 143 recognitions shared: A culture of appreciation blossomed, with employees celebrating each other’s contributions.

Improved Wellbeing and Collaboration

Employees reported better physical health, improved mental resilience, and stronger connections with colleagues. CHOYS’s gamified challenges and wellbeing insights empowered them to stay active, manage stress, and build new habits.

Culture of Innovation and Loyalty

By investing in their team’s health and happiness, AST has cultivated a workplace where employees feel valued and driven to contribute their best, leading to reduced turnover and enhanced morale.

HR Leadership’s Approach to Wellbeing

AST’s Head of HR shared their personal approach to maintaining balance and promoting wellness:
"To unwind, I prioritise activities that allow me to disconnect from work and focus on self-care. I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, playing sports like badminton or swimming, and journaling. Facing burnout taught me to set clear boundaries between work and personal life and practice mindfulness. It’s important for leaders to model healthy behaviours to reduce stigma and inspire others to prioritise their wellbeing."

They also offered advice for other companies exploring wellbeing solutions:
"Start by assessing employee needs through surveys or feedback to ensure programs are relevant and impactful. Offer holistic initiatives that address physical, mental, and social health while creating a supportive culture where wellness is a priority. Flexibility in work schedules and regular evaluation of programs can ensure long-term success."

Conclusion

AST’s collaboration with CHOYS proves that employee wellbeing is a competitive advantage. It’s a cornerstone of organisational success. With 20,771,303 steps, 1,891 tracked habits, and 143 recognitions shared, AST has created a thriving culture where health, connection, and impact are at the forefront.

For companies looking to elevate their workplace culture, CHOYS offers a proven, customisable solution. Book a demo today to explore how CHOYS can make your workplace healthier, happier, and more connected.