Life as an apprentice at Aker BP – Ida Pettersen

Aker BP sees it as an important social responsibility to contribute to the development of both new graduates, students and apprentices. The company therefore takes in apprentices every year and this year’s apprenticeships are out now.

Being an apprentice provides a unique entry into the offshore industry. You get interesting experiences, varied skills, and become part of an inclusive working environment. Over the course of two years, the participants will complete their apprenticeship so that they can take their vocational certificate.

To show what life as an apprentice is like at Aker BP, we have spoken to some of those who started as apprentices in the autumn of 2021. First up is Ida Pettersen. Ida is an apprentice in the electrical apprentice and works on the Ivar Aasen platform. Her daily tasks consist of operating and maintaining the electrical system, and ensuring that EX integrity is maintained at all times. EX equipment is electrical components that are designed in such a way that flammable gas that may be in the vicinity cannot be ignited.

The apprenticeship mainly takes place in offshore rotation, with two weeks out and four weeks off. Ida says that she has enjoyed the rotation, but says that the only challenge has been that the free period can become a bit too long.

– I feel that it can be a bit too long with four weeks off. But I think this has been solved in a good way by either studying on my own or by being given assignments. As of right now, I am working on preparing for the VG3 exam, which you have to take in order to take the certificate of completed apprenticeship. It can be an advantage to find some ways to stay ” academically warm” during the weeks off, she adds.

She says that the best thing about being an apprentice has been that everyone has been very interested in teaching her what they know. The threshold has been low for asking questions, and she has gotten good explanations of what she was wondering about. They also take the time to go out into the facility to show and explain if it is necessary, which is greatly appreciated.

Ida will finish her apprenticeship in a year, but says she would like to continue as an electrician offshore if the opportunity presents itself. She has enjoyed herself at Ivar Aasen, but says that she is also open to working on other installations.

– I highly recommend others to apply for an apprenticeship at Aker BP. You get to know the people you work with very well, and you are well taken care of. Aker BP is a relatively young company where a lot is happening all the time. It is also a company that is constantly growing, which also means that a lot of exciting things happen, Ida says.

Right now, Aker BP is advertising new apprenticeships starting in September this year. Read more below and apply before 24 February 2023.