What is it like to work in a startup?

What is it like to work in a start-up? What are the benefits, and how do you get in touch with exciting companies? We meet Thea Johansson, a recent graduate from University West who now works at the Trollhättan startup Chassis Autonomy, which is part of our incubator.

Chassis Autonomy, part of our incubator, is the startup whose technology is paving the way for autonomous vehicles. Although the company has only been running since 2021, they have already achieved an impressive amount. Among other things, they have received the award for Startup of the Year in Trollhättan, received €2.5 million in grants from the EU and managed to attract the global group Kongsberg Automotive as a partner. Today, the team consists of more than 20 people and Thea is one of them.

Tell us a little about yourself. Who are you?

I was born and raised in Trollhättan. I grew up around engineers but I wanted to be an architect. Engineering seemed far too dry for my taste. But the older I got, the more I realized how exciting engineering is and its potential to shape the future, how we take care of our planet and our fellow human beings. I therefore chose to change track and study Industrial Economics at University West. It was a fantastic period in my life. University West is a very familiar university that is close to my heart.

How did you get in touch with Chassis Autonomy?

During a lunch break, I was reading the local newspaper TTELA and saw an article about the Trollhättan start-up Chassis Autonomy, which develops control systems for highly automated vehicles (SAE L3) and fully autonomous vehicles (SAE L4 and L5). The company had just received €2.5 million from the EU and planned to recruit 10 to 15 people. Although no specific role was open for a student, I showed my interest. After a successful interview, I started as an Engineering Intern in February 2023 and then continued as a Project Support Engineer after my graduation. Today, I work to support the engineering work and our projects. I am also involved in student recruitment and contact with colleges around the country.

The best thing about working in a startup?

The best thing about working in a start-up is the stimulating environment. I learn a lot, I get to take a lot of responsibility and I get to use my problem-solving skills and creativity. I work very closely with my colleagues and managers, which means I learn from the best! Another benefit is that I get to be part of discussions that I don't think would be as accessible in a larger company as a new graduate. I am grateful that I get to go to work every day and feel happy that one more day I can make a difference in how we transport ourselves safely. 

Your advice to others who want to work in a startup?

If you are curious as a person and looking for a unique job experience in your career, I really think you should try working in a startup. You are guaranteed to grow as a person and feel involved and valuable. If it sounds exciting, I challenge you to try it. I have never regretted my decision!