A desire to grow professionally and keep pace with rapid technological change led Bjørne Røtvold to take the next step in his career. He works full-time as a machinist, and in the evenings he studies Mechanical Technical Design.
- I wanted to complete a programme that would strengthen my skills, and technical design felt like a natural choice. I’ve always been interested in 3D printing, and in my job we increasingly use CAD and CAM tools. It was simply time to keep up, he says.
An industry in transition
For Bjørne, it became clear that further education was necessary when he saw how quickly the manufacturing industry was moving towards digitalisation. That insight led him to enrol in the one-year programme in Technical Design - Mechanical.
- Production is becoming more and more digital. We see increased use of advanced machinery, automation, and modelling. I wanted to understand these changes better and be able to contribute actively, he explains.
I was working on a task under time pressure and realised: I simply don’t know this well enough. That’s when I knew I had to do something. Bjørne Røtvold
He clearly remembers the moment he realised he needed more formal knowledge:
- I was under pressure to solve a task at work and felt that my skills weren’t sufficient. That’s when it clicked. YouTube helps a lot, but I wanted formal documentation of my competence.
Flexibility that makes it possible
For someone working full-time in the industrial sector, the flexibility of online studies has been essential. Bjørne emphasises that being able to study from home, at times that suit him, has been crucial. He has even worked on coursework while travelling.
He also highlights an unexpected advantage of online learning:
- Being able to rewatch lectures, even months later, is incredibly useful. It makes it much easier to revise and build on what you’ve already learned.
Knowledge that strengthens everyday work
The programme has had a direct impact on Bjørne’s daily work. What he learns in his studies is applied immediately on the job.
- Working with 3D models has become much more intuitive. We often do reverse engineering – creating 3D models of existing parts for further programming. That process is now far more efficient.
He has also gained a much deeper understanding of technical drawings – a core tool in manufacturing. With this insight, he sees the bigger picture more clearly and can contribute more effectively throughout the entire process, from idea to finished product.
Mastery through digital craftsmanship
Of all the subjects in the programme, 3D modelling has fascinated Bjørne the most.
I’ve gained a new respect for how precise and well thought-out design work has to be, Bjørne Røtvold
- Designing something digitally and then actually producing it yourself is incredibly rewarding. Seeing a model on the screen turn into a physical product gives a real sense of achievement.
He also highlights his improved understanding of technical drawings as one of the most valuable learning outcomes.
Looking ahead with new skills
To others considering studying alongside a full-time job, Bjørne has a clear message:
- If you have the motivation, go for it. You don’t need any prior knowledge. Everything you need to know, you’ll learn along the way.
He works shifts, which makes it easier to find time for studying, but believes it ultimately comes down to planning and the willingness to learn. For Bjørne, the programme is not only about professional development, but also about opening doors for the future.
- Skills in technical design and digital modelling are highly sought after in the industry. I wanted to make my workday easier, but also gain more varied tasks and greater opportunities going forward.
Read more about Mechanical Technical Design.
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