When Aleksander Jan Bobrowski joined Brunvoll as a work placement student in August 2023, he did not meet the formal requirements for an apprenticeship. Passing grades in Norwegian, mathematics, and English aremandatory criteria, and Aleksander had not yet achieved these qualifications.
Despite this, Kai Lyngstad, Head of the Welding Department,recognised his potential. Based on Aleksander’s performance during his placement, he demonstrated a level of practical competence comparable to his peers, regardless of his formal academic standing.
As Aleksander showed strong practical abilities but faced challenges in theoretical learning, Brunvoll initiated dialogue with the county’s adult education services to explore possible pathways towards a practical competence test and, ultimately, a trade certificate in welding. This approach, however, proved unfeasible, as the required support could not be provided through this channel.
Brunvoll therefore chose to develop an alternative, in-house solution. Aleksander was offered tailored theoretical training alongside his ongoing practical development. This enabled him to prepare for and complete across-disciplinary examination in spring 2025.
The results were exceptional. Aleksander achieved top marks across all assessment areas, and the examination board highlighted that his competence level already exceeded what is typically expected for certification.They further noted that, had this been the final trade test, he would have been a strong candidate for “Apprentice of the Year”. However, in accordance with regulations, he was required to wait an additional year before completing the official trade certification.
In March 2026, Aleksander was finally able to take his trade test. He once again demonstrated outstanding performance, achieving “Pass with Distinction” in all categories.
This achievement reflects both Aleksander’s determination and Brunvoll’s commitment to facilitating competence development through flexible and inclusive approaches.
