After nearly twelve years in the workforce, Kjell Morten decided to start over. Today, he works in cyber security at Siemens Energy, a job he landed right after earning his bachelor’s degree from Noroff University College.
- I had long wanted to work in IT, but stayed in a job I enjoyed. When I finally decided to study, the bachelor’s in cyber security was a natural choice. It bridged the gap between my work experience, the security industry, and my interest in digital technology, says Kjell Morten Gudmestad.
- Noroff University College gave me a new chance
As a new father without the option to relocate, online studies became the solution.
- Noroff University College was one of the few that offered an online bachelor’s degree and also gave me the opportunity to start, even though I didn’t have top grades from high school. That meant a lot. I got a second chance, he says.
Even during his studies, he knew he had made the right choice:
- The subjects were demanding but also incredibly engaging. I learned a lot in courses like ‘Criminality and Warfare in the Digital Domain’ and ‘Pentesting’. These subjects have given me direct value in working life.
Critical infrastructure – and critical responsibility
The role at Siemens Energy is tangible and of vital societal importance. Kjell Morten works as a cyber engineer focusing on OT security—that is, security in operational technology used in everything from energy systems to industry.
- We conduct security testing on equipment used in critical infrastructure. It’s absolutely essential to understand risk, networks, and how attacks actually happen in practice. That’s where my education has been incredibly valuable.
He highlights specific areas of study that have been directly useful:
- Risk assessment, networking, the OSI model, firewall rules, and penetration testing—all of this has already come into play. It’s not theory for theory’s sake. These are things my employer actually expects me to know.
A career for the future – and for everyone
Kjell Morten believes cyber security is an education that provides both career opportunities and personal value.
- Even if you end up working in something else, you’ve learned skills that are useful in everyday life. Understanding the digital world and having basic coding and security knowledge benefits everyone.
To those unsure if the study is right for them, he has a clear message:
- You don’t have to master everything from the start. The most important thing is that you try. Noroff gives you a strong foundation, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way, that’s how you learn.
Not just a student – a resource
Despite many years of work experience, he found the transition to a new field surprisingly smooth.
- It was incredibly motivating to enter a job where I could contribute from day one. I didn’t have to start completely from scratch—I actually had something to offer. That’s a great feeling.
He believes the combination of knowledge, personality, and willingness to take a chance is what landed him the job:
- You have to dare to apply, even if you don’t feel 100% ready. Show that you’ve learned, that you’re eager to keep learning, and believe in yourself.
An online program with more than just academics
Even though the program was digital, he experienced dedicated lecturers and an academic environment with meaningful expectations.
- Of course, online learning can be challenging, but the lecturers did a great job. I hope future students also dare to put themselves out there—don’t be afraid to ask questions. That’s how you get the most out of the program.
Today, he is both proud and grateful.
- Working at Siemens Energy means a lot. I’m challenged, I’m learning, and I feel like I’m part of something important. For me, it confirms that I made the right choice, and that it’s never too late to start over.
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