School of industry rocks!

Sandvik is engaged in a number of educational initiatives across the globe, from primary schools for underprivileged children in India to apprenticeships in South Africa, most often with a focus on the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

The Göranssonska technical high school was founded in 2002 by Sandvik and the Sandviken municipality. Sandvik owns 91 percent of the school, which is named after Göran Fredrik Göransson, the founder of Sandvik.

“For Sandvik, being involved in technical education is crucial,” says Sara Balmér Neyman, chairman of the school board and a Sandvik employee. “Today’s industrial operators need advanced technical skills as the manufacturing processes have become increasingly sophisticated. There is fierce competition for talent in the industry, and educating these talents helps strengthen our position and give us an advantage in attracting skilled workers to meet modern industrial demands. This initiative also allows us to contribute meaningfully to society by creating a highquality school near our production facilities.”

Hands-on learning

The school offers an intensive industrial technology program where students complete four years of studies in three years, through extended school days. The education combines theoretical studies with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art workshops equipped with the latest technology.

“The support we receive from Sandvik is invaluable,” says Managing Director and Principal Maria Edring.

Sandvik invest significant effort to ensure high-quality internships, welcome us for study visits, and send experts to share their knowledge on sustainability, safety, and industry trends.

A unique aspect of the program is that all students receive the opportunity to visit and intern at Sandvik facilities worldwide. “It’s more than just an educational program − it’s a stepping- stone into the industry. I had the incredible opportunity to visit Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions in Australia, where I worked with engineers to help develop a next-generation bucket for an underground loading machine. That kind of real-world experience is invaluable,” says third-year student Melker Sund.

Career opportunities

What sets the school apart is its opportunities for employment. The graduates can apply for six to ten-month positions at Sandvik, which under certain circumstances can be extended. This initial period gives them valuable time to gain work experience and reflect on their future career paths. Approximately 70 percent of graduates go on to university for further technical studies, and many later return to work at Sandvik or other industrial companies in the region. This flexibility in career paths demonstrates how the school serves both immediate industry needs and long-term professional development.

“Our engagement with the school serves two key purposes,” says Balmér Neyman.

“First and foremost, we need to secure technical competence for the industry – both for Sandvik and the broader industrial sector. Göranssonska plays a crucial role in attracting young talent to engineering and technical professions. Secondly, through internships with us, students gain a concrete understanding of what it means to work in modern industry and what their future professional life might look like. Additionally, we’re proud that this initiative contributes positively to the local community where we operate.”