The recommendation was presented as the students at the University of Agder, specializing in International Business, made their final presentations on international business cases for a number of companies located in Agder.
The aim of the course International Laboratory is to prepare the students for real life decision-making in international business. The laboratory experience implies that the students will work with real companies and their executives. The focus of the course is on strategic, organizational, marketing and managerial challenges as the firm internationalize.
“NODE companies’ strengths in oil & gas and marine sectors could play well in offshore wind, especially in deep water”, the students concluded.
According to their survey, 23 NODE companies have an interest in the offshore wind market.
“Their business strategy should be to establish a consortium and collaborate internationally. There is a shift from oil & gas to renewables. Offshore wind is the most transferable market in terms of equipment, knowledge and expertise”, said the students.
They received good feedback from Rotem Shneor (University of Agder) and Rita Schage (Innovation Norway) in the evaluation panel.
In additions to GCE NODE as a cluster organization, the following NODE companies had student groups working on different projects: KSMV (Skruefabrikken), Teknova, Red Rock og Urdal Services.
“The students have challenged us and inspired us to think differently about future production processes. At some point, some of our customers will ask for 3D-printed products. The students provided input as to how we should position ourself as a global 3D printer product supplier”, says Tor Berthelsen, COO at KSMV.
