Even before completing his online education in technical design, 37-year-old Trond Eirik Bruvik has secured his dream job as a CAD designer. After years of working in various fields, he found new motivation through flexible online studies — and a meaningful career he looks forward to every day.
At 16, Trond Eirik Bruvik was tired of school after years of challenges in the education system. After completing lower secondary school, he decided to take a one-year break to work. That break turned into several years of working as a truck driver, truck salesman, and even running his own business.
– Education has always been a bit of a sensitive topic, as everyone around me had vocational or higher education. It wasn’t until I turned 37 that I felt the desire to study again. I spoke with my younger brother, who is an engineer at Aker Solutions, and he suggested online studies in technical design since it matched my interests, says Trond Eirik.
Motivated to study again, Trond Eirik enrolled in online technical design studies – mechanical focus – based on his work experience. This practical education provides knowledge about mechanical assemblies and constructions, opening doors to opportunities across industries like construction and oil.
Supportive Teachers and a Flexible Study Model
So far, Trond Eirik describes his study experience as overwhelmingly positive.
– Going to school as an adult is like night and day compared to my younger years, he says.
– There’s a good balance between pre-recorded lectures, live sessions, and forums where you can easily reach out to teachers and fellow students for support. Teachers are always proactive and eager to help and encourage.
He highlights the flexibility of the program:
– You can start whenever you want and finish whenever you want. Personally, I feel the deadlines have been very manageable with plenty of time to complete assignments.
Hired as a CAD Designer
Even before completing his studies, Trond Eirik was hired as a CAD designer at Aermade AS, a company that develops HVAC units for offshore facilities, wind turbines, oil and gas platforms, and ships around the world.
– A typical workday involves designing everything from large projects to minor production adjustments. I report to the technical manager and project managers, review and update GA drawings, and perform as-built checks on completed units, he says.
– Never before has a job felt as meaningful as this one, he adds.
He continues:
– It’s a fantastic job with great colleagues at every level. As a CAD designer, you are involved in many parts of the process and gain unique insights into the industry. I look forward to going to work every single day.
Trond Eirik learned about the CAD designer job through LinkedIn and decided to apply. He shares that he didn’t take it for granted that he would land a job so early in his studies but was fortunate to find an employer who saw his potential.
– This was incredibly exciting for me. Never before has a job felt as meaningful as this one, says Trond Eirik.
– The Sense of Achievement Boosts Confidence Tremendously
Trond Eirik says having the academic background was crucial as he transitioned into his new role as a CAD designer.
– The studies not only gave me skills in technical drawing but also an understanding of what is expected of me as an employee, as well as competence in managing the structure of large projects. I use a lot of what I’ve learned in my job every single day. It’s the combination of everything I’ve learned that makes it work so well, he says.
When asked if he has any advice for others considering a similar career path, he answers:
– If this interests you, just go for it! The program is very manageable, and the sense of achievement you gain along the way provides incredible confidence for the future.
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