A new round with work experience for girls from Norwegian upper secondary schools

Following last year’s successful work placement program, NCE Blue Legasea, in collaboration with local businesses and upper secondary schools in the region, is ready for a new round this autumn. The goal is to strengthen the position of women in the blue economy.

Strong interest from both industry and schools

Feedback from both students and companies last year was so positive that all partners expressed a strong desire to continue the initiative. The companies see great value in meeting young, curious talents and the potential this holds for future recruitment. The girls, on the other hand, gain a unique opportunity to get to know local companies — and, not least, to meet the women already working in the industry — learning from their experiences and advice.

Building on last year’s experiences

Last year, five students from Molde, Ålesund, and Atlanten upper secondary schools gained insight into what it’s like to work in different parts of the blue economy. They visited Orivo AS, GC Rieber VivoMega AS, and Hofseth International AS — and the feedback was unanimously positive. “An educational experience that inspired me in terms of future studies and potential careers,” said one of the lucky participants from last year’s work placement.

“We have so many exciting companies and skilled women in our region. Through the WIN-BIG project, they become sources of knowledge, inspiration, and networking for the younger girls who are about to make their first choices toward studies and future careers. A true WIN-WIN situation,” says project manager Silje Bjørke from NCE Blue Legasea.

Looking forward to round two

Round two is approaching, where a new group of girls will get the chance to participate, and planning is already underway. The goal is to give even more young women a practical taste of what it’s like to work in one of Norway’s most forward-looking industries. This year, Seagems Group and Brunvoll AS have also joined as placement companies, and together with GC Rieber they are welcoming in all 6 students from different schools. 

“We know that recruitment and diversity will be crucial going forward. That’s why we’re excited to once again connect a new group of girls with local companies in the blue economy this autumn,” says Bjørke.

A contribution to the workforce of the future

The work placement program is part of the EU project WIN-BIG, which aims to strengthen the position of women in the blue economy. By giving young women the opportunity to get to know local businesses, the partners hope to boost both recruitment and diversity in an industry with vast growth potential.
The implementation of the placement program has been made possible with support from Møre og Romsdal County Council and Sparebanken Møre.