At Multi Kulde Vest in Ålesund, refrigeration runs in the family. Technician Arne Rongve and his grandson Truls work side by side – one with decades of experience, the other with a trade certificate on the horizon.
“I started in 1976, with my own father,” says Arne, now a project manager and all-rounder.
“These days, I mostly follow up on projects and make sure things are running as they should. I drive the truck, fetch parts, take calls – whatever it takes.”
That includes responding to emergencies – like the time a client five hours away had 100 tonnes of fish at risk due to a freezer failure.
“That’s just how it is. Someone always steps up for the customer. That’s the beauty of this team.”
“I do a bit of everything, but I’m not out turning wrenches as much these days,” says Arne, now a project manager and all-rounder at Multi Kulde Vest.
Truls Rongve Svendsen entered the trade thanks to his grandfather and uncle – and quickly discovered a passion for it.
“Even before I started vocational school, I was already out there with my grandfather and uncle – getting hands-on and turning a few screws. That’s when I knew I wanted to give it a shot.”
He’s now completing his apprenticeship, having studied electrical engineering and refrigeration at Borgund Upper Secondary School.
Arne, meanwhile, sits on the board of the regional training office and helps mentor new apprentices.
“It’s crucial for the future of the trade. We need to invest in young people and make sure they’re well prepared for the certificate.”
Truls studied electrical engineering (VG1) and refrigeration technology (VG2) at Borgund Upper Secondary School in Ålesund. Each year, the programme accepts 15 students who want to pursue a career in refrigeration. He is now an apprentice at Multi Kulde Vest, and will take his trade certificate exam this autumn.
A vital profession for society
“If we weren’t around, grocery stores wouldn’t function,” says Arne.
“Even a small store may need millions in refrigeration systems – and we help them keep products safe and fresh.”
“Without us, you wouldn’t have heating or cooling at home either,” Truls adds with a smile.
The new SPAR store on Ellingsøya in Ålesund has undergone a major upgrade, including a complete refrigeration system delivered by Multi Kulde Vest. Truls took part in everything from dismantling the old installation to installing new, energy-efficient solutions using CO2 as the refrigerant.
Work, family – and a bit of mountain air
Outside of work, Arne and Truls often go hiking together – part fitness, part bonding.
Truls and Arne – two generations out for a hike with their dog Silke. Arne has four children and eleven grandchildren. “They all live nearby. We’re like a small handball team – and I think that’s just fantastic,” he says.
“He keeps me moving,” Arne laughs. “I’ve had heart issues and need to stay active. Hopefully I can keep going until I turn 70. I promised the boss.”
For Arne, the job is more than a job.
“It’s about energy, control and peace of mind for our customers. We show up. We take the calls. We fix the problems. That’s what we do – every single day.”