Boden launches engineering programme for future jobs
Boden is in the midst of a major societal transformation, with new jobs emerging in both industry and defence. To meet the demands of the changing labour market, the municipality is now launching a new educational programme at Björknäsgymnasiet, starting in autumn 2026.
As new establishments take shape in Boden, the needs of the labour market are also changing. The green industrial transition, together with the increased presence of the Swedish Armed Forces, has created a demand for technical skills that did not exist just a few years ago. In response, Björknäsgymnasiet will introduce the Upper Secondary Engineering Programme in autumn 2026 – a fourth technical year that builds on the Technology Programme, offering in-depth knowledge in industrial design and product development.
The programme spans one academic year and combines technical studies with project work and workplace-based learning. The goal is to provide students with clear and relevant skills for the labour market now emerging in Boden.
“We see a clear shift in the skills that are in demand. It’s about technical understanding, problem-solving and the ability to work in modern production environments. This programme has been designed to meet exactly those needs,” says Thomas Hedlund Nilsson, Deputy Principal at Björknäsgymnasiet.
An education shaped by societal transformation
The new programme is unique and a direct result of the changes taking place in Boden. New industrial investments and a strengthened defence presence have reshaped both the labour market and the requirements for skills supply. For the municipality, it is about ensuring that education keeps pace with development.
“When society changes at this speed, schools need to change as well. With a fourth technical year, we are creating a bridge between upper secondary school and working life,” says Thomas Hedlund Nilsson.
Practical education close to working life
The Upper Secondary Engineering Programme has a strong practical focus and includes both project work and workplace training. Students work on real-world assignments that reflect what it is like to work in technology, industry and production.
The programme is delivered in close collaboration with local employers such as Stegra, SMS Group Nordic, LN Industrimontage and the Swedish Armed Forces. This collaboration gives students early insight into working life and helps them understand different roles and future career paths.
“It’s important that the education doesn’t become theoretical and detached from reality. Through collaboration with employers, we can link teaching to real needs and current processes,” says Thomas Hedlund Nilsson.
Anette Sundström, Head of People & Organisation Stegra Boden
Strong job prospects after graduation
After completing the programme, graduates will have strong employment opportunities. The skills provided are in demand across several sectors, particularly within the green industry, manufacturing and production companies, technology and automation, as well as within the Swedish Armed Forces and defence-related industries.
“There is already a great deal of experience and expertise in the region, and the municipality strengthening the local future recruitment base in this way is very valuable to us,” says Anette Sundström, Head of People & Organisation Stegra Boden
The programme also provides a solid foundation for those who wish to continue their studies, for example at a university or university of applied sciences.
The programme is open to students who have completed the Technology Programme or an equivalent education and who apply no later than the calendar year in which they turn 22. It also has national intake, meaning that applicants from other parts of Sweden are welcome to apply.
“For us, it’s important that young people in Boden see clear and attractive pathways forward here. This programme is a concrete way of creating those opportunities,” says Thomas Hedlund Nilsson.
The application period is open from 1 February to 15 April.
The investment in the Upper Secondary Engineering Programme is part of Boden’s long-term work to meet the jobs of the future and strengthen the municipality’s attractiveness – both for young people growing up here today and for those considering moving here from other parts of the country.
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Text by: André Samuelsson
Photo by: Main image: Shutterstock, featured image: Stegra
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