As the autumn semester of 2025 began, we – as co-organisers together with BTH – gathered all new students from both the Master of Science and Bachelor of Engineering programmes. During their very first week at BTH, the students gained a hands-on introduction to the professional world that awaits them after graduation.
A wide range of companies, organisations and public sector actors were present – all there to meet the engineers of the future.
The initiative was led by Johan Hjortsberg, Programme Director for the Master of Science programme in Naval Architecture, who also served as moderator for the day.
“It’s not just the students who should get to know the industry. The industry also needs to get to know the students. The present meets the future.”
– Johan Hjortsberg, BTH
A testament to the strength of the region
Bringing together so many actors – from industry, the public sector, and high-tech sectors – already during the introduction week not only demonstrates strong engagement. It also clearly highlights the weight and relevance the region holds.
This region offers more than just competence – it is home to future-focused industries, essential societal functions, and a wide range of career opportunities. The fact that organisations like FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces, Saab Kockums, AFRY, NKT, Ericsson and many others are involved from day one shows that together, we are a driving force for development – both locally and nationally.
A hands-on encounter with the real world
Throughout the day, each organisation presented their operations, their needs – and what they can offer future engineers. Everything from thesis projects and internships to summer jobs and full-time positions. Several of the representatives were former BTH students themselves, now working as specialists, managers or interns – creating a clear bridge between education and real-world experience.
Among those present were:
- FMV – Swedish Defence Materiel Administration
- The Swedish Armed Forces (The Navy in Karlskrona)
- Roxtec
- NKT
- AFRY
- Telenor
- Ericsson
- Saab Kockums
- The Swedish Coast Guard
- MTC and Blue Science Park
- Karlskrona Municipality
Shaping the skills of the future starts here
The students who have now begun their studies will specialise in:
- AI and Machine Learning
- Software Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Marine Technology
- Industrial Engineering and Management
- Cybersecurity
- Game Technology
And they’re doing it in a region where their knowledge truly makes a difference. In Karlskrona, we are right on time – at the heart of a marine technology ecosystem driving progress in defence, energy supply, digitalisation, and sustainable ocean environments.
Bringing all these actors together from the very beginning clearly shows that what we do here is not just education – it’s an active part of building the society of tomorrow.
A city where engineers grow
Karlskrona is Sweden’s marine capital – a place where academia, innovation, and industry work closely together. Here, the path from studies to employment is not only short – it’s integrated from day one. The introduction week was a clear example of that.
“It was incredibly valuable to get a clear picture of what all these organisations actually do – and the opportunities that exist. We haven’t even started our studies yet.”
– One of the participating students
