2022.09.27

Meet Van Hanna, student at Connected home

YH-Utbildning Service Engineer Connected Home, run by the University of Technology, is a distance learning programme that the University of Technology together with APPLiA applied to start in 2019 as the need for service engineers continues to increase. APPLiAnytt has spoken to Van Hanna, who is currently studying in the programme, to hear how he views the programme and his plans for the future!

Hi Van, you are training to become a service engineer in the Connected Home program. Tell us why you applied for the program?

-I applied for the education because of my great interest in technology with a future goal of starting my own company connected to Connected Home. I have previously studied computer engineering at Mälardalen University and work full-time as a 3D Simulation Engineer at ABB in Västerås.

What have you learned so far?

-It has been a really good course, combined in a good way, where we have gained a lot of knowledge. We have learned most of the things about white goods, electrical appliances, networks, digital technology and IT security, as well as the environment and sustainability. Now we are studying protocols and system control and are also getting a certificate in the FIBARO system, which is one of the largest and most popular on the market when it comes to smart products. All subjects are equally important as they are present in everything we do. I have also done my first LiA at Electrolux service in Eskilstuna, where I went with a skilled technician to customers and repaired their white goods.

What has been the best thing about the training?

-One of the best things is the internship where we got to learn everything beyond the product itself, such as service and dealing with customers and their challenges. The training has worked well remotely even though it has been intense as I have been working full-time at the same time. I appreciate that you have studied one course at a time instead of several courses in parallel like at some schools. Another important thing is that the teachers and training manager want to help and are available, it has not felt as if the training is remotely, which is a big plus.

What do you think about them not accepting more students for the program?

-I think it's boring, as do many others in my class, since the labor market still looks the way it does and the training helps to get more people into work. There are also many practical elements in the course and therefore it is suitable for those who had not chosen a sedentary education. I noticed this when I applied for an internship, many companies were positive and asked me to contact them when the training was finished. There has been a lot of interest from several companies that I have spoken to!