Meet the apprentice who became a Yard Director
At the age of 20, he started as an apprentice in the industrial mechanic trade – today Arnt Inge Gjerde is the Yard Director for both Vard Søviknes and Vard Brattvaag.
12. April 2024
It all started back in 2000
When Arnt Inge started as an apprentice at Vard Søviknes in 2000, it didn’t take long before he got hired as an Industrial Mechanic at the shipyard. Through the years he has had many different areas of responsibility and has gained extensive experience.
– I remember my time as an apprentice as very exciting. It gave me a unique opportunity to get to know the shipyard's people and environment. Ever since I started here, I have had the curiosity linked to how we do things – and the that is is still there, he says.
In 2020, he became Shipyard Director at Vard Søviknes, and just two years later he also took on the responsibility for Vard Brattvaag.
A shipyard director with a passion for the profession
– I show up as early as I can every day. This ensures a unique connection with the people who are at work and the opportunity to get to grips with the day’s schedule. Even though my main responsibility is running the shipyard, I aim to helping out in the projects. I find them very exciting, Arnt Inge says.
It is clear that the Shipyard Director has a passion for the profession and is keen to be hands-on.
All about the people
– What I like most about my job are people. I get to work with people of all ages and backgrounds. They all have to collaborate to build a solid vessel and it’s truly rewarding to facilitate the process, Arnt Inge explains.
He describes the construction itself as quite controlled, with clear goals and subgoals.
– It is hard but honest work. You get to see results that make you immediately proud, Arnt Inge explains.
And if something goes wrong, we work together to fix that as well. Challenges inspire me because there is always a way to solve them. At least when you collaborate.
Recharging with family and friends
There is little doubt that Arnt Inge's everyday life is hectic with long workdays. He is originally from Lepsøya but now lives in Eidsvika with his family. A peaceful place where he likes to recharge with family and friends. People are a key element for him to thrive – both at home and at work.
– When I have time off, I spend it with my wife and our children. We love taking advantage of the nearby mountains and sea. I also appreciate good conversations over a cup of coffee at the neighbor's workshop, says Arnt Inge.
High activity
However, it does not look like there will be an increasing amount of coffee cups at the neighbor’s workshop in 2024. The activity at the shipyards is high and Arnt Inge is already working on expanding his team.
– If you know 10-15 motivated people eager to take on new challenges this year, let me know, he says with a smile.
