It takes courage and intelligence to commit to a solo open-water swim from the California Channel Islands – especially at just 13 years old. Yet, that’s exactly the challenge Fiona Goh took on in 2012. But Fiona wasn’t just any 13-year-old. She’s the daughter of Yong Goh and Ching Chia, the president and CFO of SchGo Engineered Products – leaders in precision machining.
Fiona became the youngest female swimmer to complete this grueling 12-mile solo journey, finishing in under 10 hours. Battling shifting currents, fluctuating temperatures, and unpredictable ocean conditions, she didn’t just rely on endurance – she relied on precision.
Fiona and her team carefully planned every aspect of the swim. The timing of her strokes, her navigation through the tides, and her energy conservation were all calculated to perfection. That same level of engineering precision is the foundation of SchGo’s approach to machining. Whether in the water or in manufacturing, success depends on expert problem-solving, accurate calculations, and flawless execution.
Why Precision Matters in Open-Water Swimming
Open-water swimming isn’t just about strength – it’s about efficiency, endurance, and smart decision-making. A swimmer can’t afford to waste energy, just like a CNC-machined part can’t afford imperfections. Fiona’s success depended on:
- Mapping the Perfect Course: Ocean currents and tides constantly shift. A straight-line swim isn’t always the fastest. Her team used tidal data, weather forecasts, and real-time tracking to determine the most efficient route, helping her avoid being pushed off course. In manufacturing, SchGo applies the same strategic planning to optimize machining paths for efficiency and accuracy.
- Perfecting Stroke Efficiency: Every stroke Fiona took was designed for maximum propulsion with minimal energy loss – just like a high-speed cutting tool following an optimized path. In CNC machining, toolpaths are programmed to reduce waste, extend tool life, and ensure precision in every cut.
- Choosing the Right Gear: Fiona didn’t choose her wetsuit, googles, or swim cap at random; they were selected for their hydrodynamic properties, reducing drag and improving efficiency. In precision machining, material selection is just as critical. SchGo chooses materials based on durability, performance, and efficiency to ensure top-tier results.
How SchGo Applies Engineering Precision
Fiona’s record-setting swim wasn’t just about endurance – it was about adapting to challenges with precision. That same principle applies to SchGo’s manufacturing process:
- Exact Measurements for Flawless Execution: Fiona’s team calculated her pace and energy output to keep her on track. Similarly, SchGo ensures every CNC-machined component meets exacting specifications. Precision is the key to reliability and performance.
- Material Science & Performance: Using the right materials makes all the difference. Fiona’s team selected swim gear that reduced resistance and increased efficiency. SchGo applies the same level of detail, choosing materials that optimize durability and function for every project.
- Adapting to Unexpected Challenges: In open-water swimming, no plan survives first contact with the ocean. Fiona had to adjust for changing currents, unexpected fatigue, and fluctuating temperatures. Likewise, SchGo’s engineers adapt to material behaviors, tool wear, and environmental factors to maintain perfection in every part.
Precision Defines Success
From pushing the limits of human endurance to achieving perfect tolerances in manufacturing, engineering precision makes all the difference. Whether swimming across open water or machining components with microscopic accuracy, the key to success is planning, execution, and adaptability.
At SchGo, precision isn’t just a goal – it’s a guarantee. Just like Fiona’s journey to the finish line, every part we produce is backed by expertise, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Precision isn’t just a requirement – it’s a mindset. Work with SchGo for perfection in every part.
