Meet a Nilar Employee – Emmy Eriksson
What is your job title?
Senior Process Operator
How would you describe yourself?
I would describe myself as a caring, creative, driven, and attentive individual. I would also like to mention that I am two different people when it comes to work and personal life.
At work, I thrive in a fast-paced environment with a lot of responsibility and social interactions, while in my personal life, I prefer to let others take the lead and enjoy spending time at home with my cat, friends, and family. I am a highly sensitive person, and self-care is crucial for me, which I primarily achieve through healing and meditation.
What led you to work in the energy storage industry?
I worked as a store manager for a café/bakery chain in Oslo for 2.5 years. When I moved back home, I wanted to try a completely new field. The reason I ended up at Nilar was primarily because my father works as a production technician at Nilar, and they needed people for the production at that time.
How did your journey with Nilar begin?
I started as a consultant at a recruitment agency before getting a permanent position. After that, I became a shift-leader in module manufacturing, and when we ramped up shifts, I became a team leader.
What is the most common misconception about your role?
At times, I feel as if people expect me to be everywhere and have all the answers, all while I continuously monitor the operation of the machines. However, I enjoy juggling multiple tasks, but at times, I believe it’s forgotten that I am stationed at a machine and can’t instantly address every need and question. Yet, this is also what makes my daily life exciting and eventful, as I tackle various types of challenges!
What is the coolest thing you are working on right now?
I am involved in the development of Nilar’s battery, testing the new generations and improvements of the battery. I am also focusing on my own growth in leadership and communication. Additionally, I enjoy the opportunities I get to visit schools and exhibitions, especially when the focus is on encouraging more girls to join the technology industry.
What motivates you?
Seeing people around me developing, and myself. I am motivated by the success of our team and the enjoyment of coming to work. I am also motivated by showing young girls that industrial jobs are for all of us. Because there are many different roles within the industry, not just for men. I aim to see more women in leadership positions in the industry, as that is also my career goal, to work in a leadership role.
Early mistakes that you learnt from in your career?
I have learned a lot from my leadership experiences, including the realization that not everyone will like me. I used to invest a lot of energy trying to please everyone and make them happy, but I’ve come to understand that there will always be those who are not satisfied with how I act, especially in a leadership position. I’ve learned that I can only do my best and be willing to address conflicts.
A secret talent or special skill?
I am actually both a hobby photographer and a singer. I often photograph weddings, families, and products when asked. I’ve been singing since I was young, and I attended a singing school called Helges Sångstudio in Gävle from ages 11 to 18. Through that school, I competed in solo singing competitions in Italy, Switzerland, Poland, and Spain. Nowadays, I only sing at baptisms and weddings when invited.
What’s the best thing about working at Nilar?
The best thing about working at Nilar is the open and inclusive atmosphere. I can be myself, and the possibilities to climb and get promoted are valued based on performance and interest, not solely on specific qualifications or education. As an R&D operation, everyone’s opinions, thoughts, and ideas are considered, whether you’re a process operator, chemist, logistician, or a leader/manager. Everyone has a voice, and everyone is essential.