Tobias Johnsson

Tobias Johnsson

Master of Science Production Engineering
Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg

Born and raised in the small town of Dingle on the west coast of Sweden. After technical high school in Uddevalla I escaped the dull life as a civilian and joined the armed forces of an amphibious EOD unit for 15 months at Amf4 in Gothenburg. This was undoubtedly one of the most interesting and challenging periods of my life, military service is something I highly recommend for everyone who wants a real physical and psychological challenge.

After the military I studied Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics and Intelligent Systems at University West in Trollhättan. I did my bachelor thesis work in the FLEXA project where my task was to develop a simulation platform (multitask cell) in Process Simulate that was controlled with a PLC.

When I graduated in 2009 I discovered that the labor market suffered a minor crisis so I decided to stay in school. Therefore I began to study for a master’s degree in Production Engineering at Chalmers. I thereby left the mechatronic focus and widen my education towards production.

Late in my second year at Chalmers I still hadn´t figured out what I wanted to work with and felt a bit confused. I started to look at Trainee positions and felt that this was just the thing for me. It was actually a good friend of mine that suggested Volvo Aero and I didn´t hesitate to send in my application. The actual selection process was quite extensive and challenging, but at the same time very interesting, it lasted two days at Volvo Aero. So even if you aren´t admitted it´s a good experience. As you understand from reading this I had the honor of being selected and that feels incredibly inspiring. This is after all a very unique opportunity for personal and professional development in an interesting company.

The first three weeks were dedicated to the workshop to get an insight and understanding of the real value adding activities of the company. After that I began my first of four periods within the company, which I spent in a development project of a future high volume product. As a trainee you have a lot of influence regarding the planning of the year, what areas within the company to work in, what people to meet and of course, what companies to visit. Between every work period of six weeks we have one week to experience other companies, both within the Volvo Group but also other completely different companies. This week is also dedicated to our personal development, both as an individual and as a group. This means that I have a great opportunity and also a lot of responsibility regarding my own development and future here at Volvo Aero.