Traaseth, CEO of Innovation Norway, and Schjøtt-Pedersen, CEO of The Norwegian Oil and Gas Association, took time out of their schedule at Arendalsuka, to make the short trip to Grimstad for their first visit to MIL.
“This is exactly what we need more of in Norway: Piloting, marked qualification and a strong focus on commercialization. A lab like this will not only strengthen Norwegian companies, but also attract foreign companies and investments,” says Krohn Traaseth.
She found MIL to be “more impressive than expected”.
“I am amazed by how far you have come in a short period of time. MIL is modern, massive and inviting, and filled with cutting-edge technology. We need more people to learn about the lab and the opportunities it represents,” says Krohn Traaseth.
Karl Eirik Schjøtt-Pedersen describes the visit to Mechatronics Innovation Lab as “an eye opener”.
“MIL provides an understanding of the technological level we are at. For a lot of people, it will seem like science fiction. But science fiction is here – now,” says Schjøtt-Pedersen.
UNDERSTANDING MIL
Elisabeth Maråk Støle, CEO of the new research giant NORCE, which is part-owner of MIL, believes it is important for decision makers and decision influencers to increase their understanding of what MIL is all about.
“MIL is an accelerator and ambassador for innovation and competence. The lab is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allowing entrepreneurs and companies to explore, develop and test their ideas and products. It lab so unique that it will draw international companies to Grimstad. And top politicians and policymakers need to be aware of this,” says Støle.
Anne-Grete Ellingsen, CEO of GCE NODE, was glad to see the CEOs of Innovation Norway and The Norwegian Oil and Gas Association at MIL.
“It is important that partners, politicians and funding agencies share our understanding of where our industry is heading. We need to find new ways to cooperate, to share data and stay competitive. Mechatronics Innovation Lab in an important tool in this process,” says Ellingsen.
MORE PICTURES: CEOs visit MIL
