A hands-on pathway to success in IT

For a global technology leader like KONGSBERG, a robust IT infrastructure is not just an operational necessity but a strategic prerequisite. Kongsberg IT plays a central role in this effort, supporting KONGSBERG’s business areas: Kongsberg Maritime, Kongsberg Discovery, and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

  • Text:Amanda Chapman-Stavn / KONGSBERG

    Photo:Magnus Bjørnnes / KONGSBERG

With a global team of 340 skilled problem-solvers, Kongsberg IT safeguards KONGSBERG’s digital infrastructure, drives innovation, and ensures operational efficiency. Among them, IT Operations apprentices form an important part of the team – learning from experienced mentors, gaining valuable hands-on experience, and contributing to real projects from day one.

Through an IT operations apprenticeship at K-tech, apprentices acquire both solid professional competence and practical experience, preparing them for the workforce. The training model consists of two years of schooling as prerequisite, followed by two years in the company, covering key areas such as IT system operations and maintenance, information security, ethics and privacy, as well as service and user support. Additionally, apprentices gain a unique opportunity to specialize in various subjects, from hybrid cloud to cybersecurity – a critical field in today’s digital landscape that few other programs offer.

“No one trains apprentices the way we do,” says Stein Sandvold, General Manager of K-tech. “In most companies with apprenticeship programmes, the apprentice follows a mentor, and their development depends largely on the mentor’s competence. After the first two years of school, there is often no further theoretical training, meaning the mentor also takes responsibility for that aspect.”

A practical approach to the workplace

The demand for IT expertise is constantly increasing, reflected in the growth of the apprenticeship scheme at Kongsberg IT. In just a couple of years the number of apprentices has grown significantly – from 2 in 2023 to 11 in 2024. This development highlights the increasing need for skilled IT professionals and Kongsberg IT’s commitment to competence development.

“It is important for us that we balance the yearly number of apprentices with the ability to provide them with high quality learning and work experience during their apprenticeship”, says Anne Toril, department manager in Kongsberg IT. “With their curious mindset and eagerness to learn, it is actually demanding to provide enough challenging tasks for them”, she laughs.

“Through K-tech, apprentices receive 50% training and 50% value creation. The advantage of this career path is that you gain unique insight into how a company actually operates,” says Berglind who is responsible for the follow-up of apprentices at Kongsberg IT.

With extensive experience as a teacher, she is passionate about providing close support and actively contributing to both the professional and personal development of each apprentice.

“Our main goal is to provide apprentices with the support and training they need to pass their trade certification exam. With a completed trade certificate, the right attitude, and motivation, there are also great opportunities for permanent employment.”

At Kongsberg IT, investing in apprentices is a strategic priority to ensure value creation, competence development, and the recruitment of future IT and security specialists. Apprentices receive thorough and hands-on training while bringing fresh knowledge and perspectives to the organisation.

A great example of the value apprentices bring is the new onboarding process at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, where they play a key role. On onboarding day, new employees gain insight into the company, receive presentations, and get their necessary equipment. Apprentices ensure that all IT equipment is prepared, manage access cards, and secure the technical setup. This has streamlined the process, ensuring that new employees receive the right equipment quickly and can smoothly transition into their roles.

“A typical week is varied. The IT world presents new challenges every day. Apprentices might spend a morning handling front desk tasks, setting up PCs and mobile devices for new employees, or assisting on projects where extra resources are needed. It’s a huge advantage that they get to work with different teams and mentors. It gives them broader perspectives, a larger network, and the opportunity to find their own path,” Berglind explains.

Specialisation in cybersecurity

Kongsberg Cyber Security Center (KCSC) is the first line of defence for KONGSBERG’s digital infrastructure, continuously working to protect systems from cyber threats. In their second year, apprentices have the opportunity to specialise in cybersecurity through a 17-week programme as part of the “security focus” during their practice towards trade exam in IT Operations.

At KCSC, three specialised teams work on different aspects of Cyber security. Apprentices rotate between these teams, gaining hands-on experience, support, and mentorship. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and several apprentices have already been offered permanent positions upon completing their training.

“This is the first time we have conducted a specialisation in cybersecurity, and the experience has been very successful. Apprentices become well-acquainted with the teams and work on real security challenges. Two of them will receive job offers after passing their trade exams,” says Helene, Department Manager at KCSC.

A strong environment for learning and development

Since the launch of the apprenticeship programme, Kongsberg IT has trained numerous apprentices, all of whom have successfully qualified for permanent positions upon completion. One of them is Marcus, who started as an apprentice at the age of 18 and is now a full-time member of the Kongsberg IT team.

“Being an apprentice at Kongsberg IT was both exciting and educational. Although I was already quite interested in IT, I got to explore new areas and learn a lot along the way. Plus, my colleagues were very welcoming and helpful, which made the transition into working life much easier.”

For Marcus, one of the biggest advantages of the apprenticeship programme was the opportunity to learn through hands-on experience.

“Going straight into a company and working practically is the best way to learn, especially if you’re tired of school. You get guided by experienced professionals while also working on real tasks,” he says.

For those considering a career in IT, Marcus highly recommends the apprenticeship programme.

“It’s a great way into KONGSBERG and an excellent workplace. You get a unique combination of professional training and practical experience, along with great career development opportunities.”

K-tech is an approved training company in 15 different disciplines, offering classroom and lab-based instruction to ensure apprentices meet the theoretical objectives of their curriculum. For those seeking a practical route into a future in IT, an apprenticeship at K-tech could be an exciting opportunity.

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