“No two days are the same – and that’s what makes this job so exciting,” says refrigeration technician Kenan Selak.
Eight years after he first entered the field, Kenan Selak is still going strong at Multi Kulde Vest in Ålesund. Originally aiming to become an electrician, he found challenge, mastery and a sense of belonging in refrigeration.
“I studied electrotechnics and planned to be an electrician. But things didn’t go as expected, and I ended up in refrigeration instead. It was all so foreign at first – so many components I didn’t understand. But today, I’m so glad I stayed the course.”
Kenan joined Multi Kulde Vest in 2020 and now works primarily with service and maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs – often on-site with customers.
“The best part is the variety. Every day brings something different. And there’s nothing like getting that call in the middle of the night – solving a real problem under pressure. It gives you a rush, but also a sense of purpose.”
“No two days are the same, and that’s what makes the job exciting,” says refrigeration technician Kenan Selak, who ensures perfect temperature in places most people never think about. When he’s not working, you’ll often find him hiking in the mountains. Here he is on Hellandshornet in Haram municipality.
A field few know – but everyone needs
“Most people don’t really know what refrigeration technicians do,” Kenan says.
“But we’re the reason you have cold drinks, safe food, and the right temperature in everything from supermarkets to dried salted codfish.”
He’s part of Multi Kulde Vest’s emergency response team, ready to respond around the clock.
“Yes, you can get a call on a Sunday night. But when you know a customer is relying on you, that makes it all worthwhile.”
Environmentally responsible refrigeration
One recent project was the total overhaul of refrigeration systems at SPAR Ellingsøya.
“We replaced old HFC-based systems and open cooling cabinets with a CO₂-based system and closed units. That saves a lot of energy – and it’s far better for the environment,” Kenan explains.
Kenan Selak at work at SPAR Ellingsøya, where Multi Kulde Vest replaced an old HFC-based system with modern, environmentally friendly CO₂ cooling.
“The new system saves energy and is much better for the environment. It’s rewarding to contribute to projects like this,” says Kenan, who enjoys a workday filled with variety and responsibility.
Rome, Bosnia and Ålesund
Off duty, Kenan enjoys hiking in the mountains – and watching his favourite football team, Roma.
“It all started with Francesco Totti – and a trip to Rome in 2014. Since then, I’ve followed every game.”
Born and raised in Norway, Kenan also has deep roots in Bosnia.
“My identity is complex. I was born here, but my family is Bosnian. I feel lucky – it’s a rich blend. And it’s made me more aware of the importance of community – at work and in life.”
Kenan at Stari Most in Mostar – a symbol of both history and unity. The iconic stone bridge was originally built in the 16th century during the Ottoman Empire, destroyed during the war in 1993, and rebuilt in 2004 as an international peace project. Today, the bridge and the surrounding old town are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
“In the end, it’s all about making people feel safe and supported. That’s what perfect temperature means to me.”