Meet Sina og Knut, Model Leads at Terravera Foundation
Sina Haugland Myhrsveen and Knut Tjomsland work as Model Leads at Terravera Foundation. Their role involves ensuring the quality of projects delivered to our partners. This includes reviewing reports, checking presentations, and maintaining close follow-up with the modellers throughout the execution of the work.
Our modellers typically work on one project at a time, building robust models in collaboration with our clients to map sustainability. As a Model Lead, I am a team player for our modellers in their projects, says Knut.
What educational background do you have?
I’m starting my fifth year in Energy and Environmental Engineering at NTNU. In addition to the theoretical knowledge I've gained through my studies, I have acquired practical experience over the years. My first summers were spent at a pharmaceutical company. Additionally, I've worked part-time as a sustainability modeller at Terravera, interned at Statkraft, and am currently an intern at Multiconsult, says Sina.
I’m also starting my fifth year in a master’s program in Industrial Economics and Technology Management at NTNU, specializing in strategy, energy, and environment. My master’s thesis will focus on sustainability and digitalization strategies. I’ve always enjoyed collaborating with fellow students and was active in various student organizations before joining Terravera, says Knut.
Why did you choose to work at Terravera?
Contributing to the green transition has always been an ambition for me. To achieve this, I believe it’s crucial to map how different value chains impact the environment. When I saw that Terravera was a non-profit that models emissions, sustainability indicators, and sustainability for businesses to make this information more transparent and reliable, I knew it was the perfect fit, says Knut.
I chose to work at Terravera because I saw it as a great opportunity to gain relevant experience. Additionally, it seemed like a part-time job with flexible hours that would fit well alongside my studies. The fact that the foundation primarily consists of students was also a big plus, making the workplace social and allowing interaction with people across different fields of study, says Sina.
What do you look for when recruiting new modellers?
When recruiting, we look for people who are independent, hardworking, and good at communicating with others. The job requires a lot of communication with both partners and colleagues within the foundation. Therefore, it’s important to have people who can communicate clearly and professionally. Of course, a positive attitude is also essential, says Sina.
The legislation around emissions and sustainability reporting is constantly changing, and there is no standard “recipe” for how things should be done. Therefore, it’s important for us that modellers are creative and adaptable in an industry where things move quickly. We’re looking for enthusiastic colleagues who can bring new knowledge, says Knut.
What is the work environment like for students at Terravera?
The work environment at Terravera is very good. Terravera has an office with desks and monitors, making it social for those who choose to work there. It’s also easier to ask others for help when working in the office. The weekly meeting, which includes the modellers and Model Leads, also takes place here, says Sina.
At NTNU, Terravera now has its own office, complete with monitors and a cozy setup. It’s really fun, and the job feels more like a paid student organization role than a standard 9-to-5 job. Working with so many students is a great experience. Many of us are new to the workforce, and it’s fun to be in this situation together. We support each other, learn together, and have a great time. That’s what I like the most about Terravera, says Knut.
Why should students apply for a job at Terravera?
Students should apply for a job at Terravera because it is a flexible and incredibly educational part-time job. You get a lot of responsibility but also a lot of freedom. Most meetings are held over Teams, so the work can be done from almost anywhere. This flexibility is very positive in a busy study schedule. Additionally, it’s a social and supportive work environment made up of students, says Sina.
I think it’s incredibly cool to see how the business world is working toward a greener society. In the foundation, we students collaborate with established business professionals and companies to achieve this. For me, it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the challenges businesses face when trying to become more sustainable and how to solve these challenges effectively. This experience is invaluable and highly relevant in today’s workforce, says Knut.
