Securing a Career in Safety

Why did you decide to study Process Technology at UiB?

I had a bachelor’s degree in Petroleum and Process Technology, which gave me a broad foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, in addition to petroleum and process-related subjects. During my bachelor’s studies, I found myself especially drawn to the courses in process technology—particularly fluid dynamics/flow theory. I found it fascinating to understand how liquids behave and flow under different conditions.

Eventually, I came across the Master’s program in Energy and Process Safety at UiB. This program brought together fluid dynamics, chemistry, and thermodynamics to explain phenomena such as explosions and combustion, all with a strong focus on safety. It felt like a natural next step after my bachelor’s, and I’ve never regretted the choice!

My time as a master’s student was the best part of my academic journey. We were a small group—just eight students—with our own desks in a shared student office at the Department of Physics and Technology. The subjects were both interesting and challenging—how do you describe the physics behind an explosion? Courses like Combustion Physics, Numerical Techniques for Process Technology (CFD), and Risk Analysis filled my days.

In the course Explosion Hazards in the Process Industries, we mixed combustible gases, ignited them, and measured things like explosion pressure and flame speed using a high-speed camera! A major part of the specialization involved the CFD tool FLACS, a commercial software widely used in industry to assess things like gas dispersion and explosions. We completed an introductory course in FLACS as part of the program, and I believe both this course and the training in risk analysis are incredibly valuable for anyone aiming to work in the safety field after graduation.

What did you write your master’s thesis on?

My master’s thesis focused on constructing and evaluating a model for the combustion rate of various gas mixtures—including hydrogen/air and carbon monoxide/air mixtures. The goal was to improve existing models currently used in the industry. I used both MATLAB and FLACS extensively—tools I still use weekly in my job today.

I had full freedom to choose the topic for my thesis, as long as it was within the safety field. It was great to dive into something I found both fascinating and (at times!) frustrating. 😊

How was the transition from studies to working life?

The transition was smooth. I was able to continue working on topics I was passionate about during my studies while solving real-world safety problems for clients. That’s a very rewarding combination. I also found that the courses from my master’s program were highly relevant and sought after in the safety industry.

What do you do for work now?

I currently work at Safetec as a Safety Consultant. Safetec is a leading provider of services within safety, risk analysis, and emergency preparedness. The tasks here vary a lot depending on your interests, but I’ve primarily focused on technical safety and reliability of technical systems.

How has your education helped you in your job?

No two days are alike. My tasks range from simulating fire or explosion scenarios, building 3D models, using Python for data analysis, to leading meetings on HAZOP, HAZID, and FMECA with clients.

I’ve also had the chance to work with safety issues related to sustainable energy sources such as hydrogen and batteries. When working with battery risk, I often use the CFD tool KFX to simulate fire scenarios. The job involves digging into complex technical systems, but also simplifying solutions and thinking creatively to give solid, practical recommendations to clients—and I really enjoy that part!

I use the technical knowledge I gained from the master’s program every day and continue to develop it in collaboration with great colleagues. I still work regularly with FLACS, just like I did during my specialization.

Did you take part in any relevant activities during your studies?

Yes! During my bachelor’s, I spent six months on exchange in Perth, Australia. It was a fantastic experience filled with programming courses (Java, Excel, MATLAB) and lots of tennis in the heat. 😊

I also worked as a teaching assistant for the Explosion Hazards in the Process Industry course, which meant I got to take part in the explosion experiments again. During my master’s, I attended a summer school in combustion physics in Germany, which was a great opportunity. Later on, I became a teaching assistant for that course as well.

Do you have any advice for students thinking about job opportunities after graduation?

If you’re interested in or curious about topics like fluid dynamics, programming (Python, for example), simulation tools, or technical safety, keep an eye on the safety industry. The work is varied, intellectually engaging, and very rewarding—I can definitely recommend it!