Trainee diaries

Setting the base

The first module in the Nordic Nuclear Trainee Program (NNTP) 2024/2025 took place in Stockholm and Forsmark, Sweden, in the end of September. It was an introductory module, and the theme was “Setting the base”.

– It is possible to read a lot into that theme, but for us it was about gaining knowledge about what it means to be a trainee within the program and what the trainee year looks like. It was also about gaining knowledge and foundation about the nuclear power industry and, not least, getting to know the group and the other trainers, says Lisa Emsing, Program Coordinator at Vattenfall.

The focus was on getting to know both the trainee group and the industry, but since the first module was hosted by Vattenfall, the trainees also gained knowledge and insight about Vattenfall. The module ended with a study visit to Forsmark, where the trainees attended interesting lectures and visited a simulator and the water tower.

– Through various activities such as interviews, speed dating, and the “Surviving in the desert” exercise, we got to know each other and practiced collaboration. We also attended many interesting lectures to learn more about communication, legal information and the energy market. Through interactive lessons, we gained valuable insights into the nuclear power industry, including the opportunity to try to operate a powerplant using a digital simulator, says Julia Lundberg, trainee at Vattenfall.

This is just the beginning; the next module will take place in Finland in November with the theme “Operating a powerplant”.

– From the first module, I take with me many new friends, new insights into the industry, its complexity, and the importance of safety work, as well as the lesson that it´s good to have a mirror if you want to survive in a desert. It feels great that the program has started, and I am excited about all the new knowledge I will gain. Already looking forward to the next module, says Julia Lundberg.