MEET REIDAR, THE OFFICE DAD

Reidar Fagervik, now a Process Method Engineer, begun his career in the Norwegian Air Force. He completed a technical education and continued to become a F-16 Crew Chief. After three years as a Crew Chief in Bodø in Northern Norway, Reidar continued on his journey and applied for an Engineering Education at the Norwegian Military Academy – that was where he became an Aviation Engineer.

Why did you want to work in aviation?

"It has always been in my blood I think. I grew up with a dad who did much of what I am working on today. I used to join him at work – he was an aircraft mechanic – and I was surrounded by different aircrafts by the age of 3. I’ve always thought that there is something special about these machines, and the different smells and sounds from an aircraft maintenance hangar.”

“I basically fell in love with the aviation industry after the first time I went with my dad to work, so it was only natural for me to continue down that line. I tried working outside the aviation industry for a while, but when this position opened up I just knew I had to apply. I have to admit that the location of our office is also ideal. I no longer have to sit in my car for hours waiting for traffic to move. I now get to spend more time with my family and at the same time work with something I truly enjoy.”

Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services is a world-class supplier of maintenance, repair and overhaul services within the aviation industry, but did you know a lot about KONGSBERG before you applied for the position?

“I’ve always stayed up to date on the company. KONGSBERG has grown exponentially the last years and it has always been a company that I have respected. The name has been mentioned from time to time in my previous positions in the aviation industry, and I only heard positive things about KONGSBERG before I started. It is definitely a company I feel safe working at and that suites me well.”

We are not entirely sure what you actually do. Can talk us through it?

"I work as something we call a Process Method Engineer. I support the Engine Mechanic and Technician crew of the F-135 engine. F-135 is the name of the engine used in Norway’s new combat aircrafts, the F-35. I help plan and organize the Engine Mechanics and Technicians’ workday and how they best should go about the tasks at hand. If problems occur or if there is something they need, they come talk to me.”

And how is the work-life balance? Do you find time to do other things than work?

“The work-life balance is working great. I have kids at home, and my family and I have found a good rhythm. I have a flexible work-situation, as long as I have all bases covered and have scheduled for someone who can assist the Engine Mechanics and Technicians when needed. My job entails that I have to be at work when the crew are here.”

“What help me get out of bed in the morning is the fact that I try to make the life of both my family and the Engine Mechanics and Technicians as good and hassle-free as possible. So I’m sort of like the dad both at home and at the office.”

You’ve only been working at KONGSBERG for a couple of months - what would you say is the best thing about your new position?

“Without a doubt; the people. The people in the aviation industry are the best. It’s a special culture within aviation, and that’s what makes it so great. I like the unpredictability – you never know what will meet you when you step into the office. Working with one of the most technologically advanced machines, such as the F-135, has its challenges and you have to be resourceful and solve the issues at hand right away. The work we do is really exciting and we are expanding our operation at a rapid rate. There are not a lot of people in the world who can say that they work on the engine of the mighty F-35 combat aircraft.”

Do you have any advice for young people who dream about working in the aviation industry?

“The most important thing is to have a genuine interest for the industry, and believe that this line of work sounds fun. You should definitely think that working on aircrafts sounds interesting in order to find this line of work fitting. We usually like structure, we like to plan ahead and be meticulous in everything we do - it’s probably that sort of people we are looking for. But no matter what, the most important thing in life is to have fun both at work and in life in general.”

Can you tell us a work-related joke?

“I am a typical engineer – too dry for jokes I’m afraid.”

Are you still in love with the aviation industry?

“Definitely. My love for the aviation industry is still there – and it’s stronger than ever. Which is nice.”