Yes-man Who Loves Technical Challenges

Known for his positivity and hands-on approach, he is an integral part of the TCM team. Stig admits that he cannot stand saying no, which naturally makes him excellent at saying yes.

As the Technical Property Supervisor at TCM, Stig Åge Vabø has a lot to oversee and follow up on. Here, he is inspecting an electrical cabinet.

“Stig, How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“In 2017, we moved from Bergen to Lindås, but the company I worked for still had its office at Danmarksplass in central Bergen. After repeatedly getting stuck in traffic on my way home, I decided to look for a job closer to home. A position at TCM came up almost by chance. I was thrilled to get the offer and haven’t regretted it for a single day.”

“Did you know much about carbon capture before joining TCM?”

“I actually knew what TCM was working on because I helped install CCTV and access control systems during the construction phase.”

“What’s the most exciting part of your job at TCM?”

“What excites me most is that my job as a Technical Property Supervisor is both strategic and hands-on. This combination allows me to me to constantly learn new things. I’m passionate about technology, and problem-solving and the interaction between people and buildings are rewarding and exciting. No two days at TCM are the same. I appreciate being challenged with new tasks and take pride in ensuring that everything related to the building’s technical systems operates flawlessly.”

“What does a typical workday look like for you, Stig?”

“The TCM administration building is equipped with advanced systems for ventilation, heating, and cooling (HVAC), which require daily monitoring and maintenance. I’m also responsible for electrical systems, fire alarms, access control, and smart building solutions that optimize energy use. My job is to ensure these systems are functioning and well-maintained. When technical issues arise, I troubleshoot and work to resolve them quickly to ensure that operations, whether in the control room or the laboratory, are not affected. I also manage compliance with mandatory inspections and certifications for the building’s technical systems.”

When technical issues arise, Stig Åge Vabø has to troubleshoot. “I try to find solutions as quickly as possible so that operations, for example in the control room or the laboratory, are not affected.

“Who do you work most closely with, and how is the collaboration?”

“I’m part of the Finance & Administration department, which is a small but efficient service team for the rest of the organization. With such a wide range of responsibilities, teamwork is essential. The collaboration within our team works excellently.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“I thrive most when I manage to resolve technical issues quickly as they arise. I also find great joy in helping colleagues who might be stuck with a technical problem and seeing the solution work. Often, it doesn’t take much, but it’s highly appreciated. People at TCM are kind to one another, and I value that a lot—it’s not something you can take for granted at every workplace.”

“You hold a master craftsman certificate as a glazier. Does this come in handy at TCM? And how has your past work experience shaped your role, Stig?”

“The master certificate proves both technical expertise and qualifications for running a business. My first trade was as a building glazier, which is helpful for maintaining the doors and windows on the building. I’ve also worked as a locksmith, which is valuable when dealing with over 70 electronic locks at TCM. Additionally, my experience as a service technician in electronics has been beneficial for managing access control and HVAC systems.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“Some say I’m part of Stoltenberg’s ‘moon landing project.’ This gives me the chance to explain how vital carbon capture technology is for achieving climate goals, both in Norway and globally. It’s exciting to highlight how TCM’s work contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future. The overall impression is that I work at an innovative workplace with great significance for the future.”

“What do you find most challenging about your job?”

“My biggest headache is dealing with external suppliers who don’t deliver as expected or fail to meet agreements. Although this can be frustrating, I focus on finding practical solutions and fostering open communication to ensure expectations are met.”

“If you were to give a flower to a colleague, who would it be—and why?”

“It would have to be Sara Eriksson, who was named TCM’s best chef just a few months into her role. Going to lunch and enjoying the wonderful meals she prepares is an absolute pleasure.”

“Stig, How do you recharge after a long day?”

“I usually take a walk with our dog, the happiest Portuguese Water Dog in the world—though, ironically, she’s a bit afraid of water. In the summer, I enjoy spending time on the water in a boat or kayak, and in the winter, I love skiing. It’s a refreshing way to recharge both physically and mentally.”

“What are your thoughts about the future?”

“Looking ahead, I feel fortunate to work at a place where innovation meets an important purpose. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that what we do contributes to a sustainable future. My hope is to keep playing my part in this important mission until I retire.”