Andreas works with the coolest product Sweden has ever made
Andreas is originally from Värmland in Sweden, but moved to Linköping and joined Saab five years ago. The move and start at Saab is something he will never regret, since every day he gets to work with, in his own words, “undoubtedly one of the coolest products that Sweden has ever made.”
Andreas earned his Master of Science degree in Information Technology from Karlstad University, after which he earned a degree of Licentiate of Philosophy in Computer Science. His research was within the field of telecommunication, but after his move to Linköping his path was changed. The choice of Linköping was much due to its appealing concentration of technology.
“Gripen goes under the epithet ‘The Game Changer’ and is one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets. One of the aircraft’s greatest strengths is its informational advantage in the air – the pilot knows more and has a better overview than the opponent – and this is where navigation plays a key role.
“It was absolutely amazing to watch the first Gripen E take off, and to know that my code was a part of what was flying up into the sky.”
When nothing can go wrong
In its simplest form, navigation involves the ability to get from point A to point B, but in a highly advanced fighter aircraft like Gripen there is a constant need to know where it will be positioned next – in every fraction of a second. This involves knowing its speed, attitude and surroundings. And one more thing: Nothing can go wrong.
Through his work at Saab, Andreas took part in what he describes as the most exciting event in all of his career: The maiden flight of Gripen E in 2017.
“It was absolutely amazing to watch the first Gripen E take off, and to know that my code was a part of what was flying up into the sky.”
When variation is your everyday workday
Andreas says that ‘variation’ is one of the reasons why he enjoys working at Saab. Right now, he works as a team leader of two different teams, which of course gives a natural variation in his daily work. In a longer perspective, the variation is even greater. One example of this was his choice to spend a year as a mentor for Brazilian engineers.
"It’s fascinating how so much knowledge can be gathered in such a small place.”
Developing flight critical software is another thing that he considers valuable and something he appreciates. This involves a way of working and a process that he has learned a lot from. This process, according to Andreas, is something that stands out when comparing our software development with other businesses. The ability to develop software, where the product ultimately demands that nothing can go wrong, is something he believes will be a skill that more companies will be asking for in the near future, in a world where more and more things are becoming connected and vehicles are developed to be autonomous.
“This is one reason among many why I would really recommend working with us – if somehow working with Gripen is not enough.”
“The best thing about my job is obviously our product: Gripen E!"
3 questions
The most inspiring: “The best thing about my job is obviously our product: Gripen E! Undoubtedly one of the coolest products that Sweden has ever made. Being able to work on something like this is incredibly motivating.”
Something that surprised you: “That everything is made in one location – it’s fascinating how so much knowledge can be gathered in such a small place.”
A strength that helps you in your job: “I’m good at breaking down tasks into pieces and getting them done.”