“An educational autumn in the heart of the tech industry” 

During the fall, Anna Gerstenfeld, who is studying for a bachelor's degree in political science at Lund University, completed an internship at TechSverige, contributing her considerable enthusiasm and analytical skills to the organization's work on industrial policy. In this interview, she talks about her experiences, her work with everything from policy documents and reports to event planning, and how her time at TechSverige has given her a broad and in-depth understanding of the tech industry. 

Anna has been involved in several aspects of TechSweden's economic policy work.  

– I have mainly worked with the economic policy team on various projects and tasks. A large part of my work has involved assisting the team where needed, including preparing background material for reports, opinion pieces, and consultation responses, as well as preparing for meetings with various stakeholders. In addition to this, I have worked extensively on creating structures, templates, and goals for larger projects. I have also had a coordinating role and been responsible for planning and implementing a major event, among other things. 

What has been most educational or developmental?
It's almost impossible to choose one thing—for me, the whole experience has been the most educational. If I had to specify something, it would be being at TechSverige, where there is a lot of variety in a typical workday. It has given me a broad and realistic insight into working life. Whether it's been member meetings, networking, or giving presentations to the board or the team, everything has been developmental. You get better by practicing, and these are skills I will most likely need in the future. Being able to practice them in an environment where the purpose is learning has been incredibly valuable. 

The people and work culture at TechSverige have also been an important part of this. 

– TechSverige is a workplace that consists of highly competent experts in their respective fields. In addition to their high level of knowledge, they are all incredibly helpful, warm, and friendly people. It has been inspiring to be surrounded by people with so much experience and expertise. 

– For me, having worked with many different issues, this has meant that I have gained knowledge in areas where I previously had limited insight. In addition, I find the work environment to be unpretentious, which creates an open and inclusive climate. 

From her time at TechSverige, Anna brings with her several insights into what creates well-being and good results. 

I have tried to take on board the advice and insights I have gained from the fantastic team I have worked with, and my biggest lesson is how important it is to be in a workplace with good colleagues. Working in a team where people enjoy themselves, are committed to their work, and support each other makes a huge difference—both in terms of job satisfaction and how good the results you can actually achieve are. 

During my internship, I saw how much it affects motivation to be surrounded by people who genuinely enjoy what they do. It creates a positive atmosphere where it's easy to ask questions, try new things, and develop. That kind of work environment is something I really want to take with me and look for in the future. 

Has the internship changed how you see tech—and if so, how? 

Above all, my view of tech has broadened. I now see more clearly the central role that technology plays in almost all areas of society. Through practical experience, I have seen up close how many different specializations and areas tech encompasses. I have also gained a deeper understanding of how companies in the industry work with social issues, such as sustainability and skills supply, which has been very rewarding.