“Look over there! They’re casting now. See how it’s burning on top? “It is because the molten liquid metal has just reached the top of the ingot mold”
Jane Jönsson Valencik speaks enthusiastically as she gives a tour of the steel plant. Despite the noise, heat, and dust, she thrives most in the heart of production.
“I try to get out into the plant as often as I can. The environment is amazing, but it’s also the best way to learn about the processes. I learn the most by talking to the operators and seeing things with my own eyes,” she says.
Jane is a process engineer specializing in metallurgy, with a degree from KTH in Stockholm. Her journey with Ovako in Hofors has been ongoing for several years, first as a summer intern, then while completing her thesis, and now for over six months as a full-time employee.
“I grew up in Stockholm but always wanted to move away, to be closer to nature. Since I loved both the job and life in Hofors, the decision to move here was an easy one,” she says.
A Problem-Solver at Work
Jane has always been passionate about science, particularly when it’s hands-on, and initially thought she’d become a geologist. But once she discovered steel, she was captivated.
“Metallurgy is incredibly interesting, and the processes are truly amazing. It’s unbelievable to see molten steel glowing at 1,650 degrees!”
Her job primarily involves solving problems and continuously improving steel production.
“I always keep an eye on production, and if something doesn’t turn out as expected, it’s my job to analyze and figure out why. It’s not always easy, but that’s what makes it fun,” she says, adding that a running joke among colleagues is that the answer to every question is always, “It depends.”
“There are so many variables involved in making steel. Just because something should work a certain way in theory doesn’t mean it will in reality,” Jane explains.
“When something doesn’t turn out as expected, it’s my job to analyze and figure out why.”
Flexible Workdays
Jane typically starts her day just before seven. She doesn’t have to be there that early, but she likes to give herself plenty of time.
“I review what happened during the previous day and check for any deviations. Then I report my findings during our morning meeting—what we call the morning prayer—at 7:45. After that, the day flows. Sometimes we have meetings, sometimes I head out into production, or I work on my own projects. My job is very flexible, and I love that!”
In addition to gaining more experience with production processes, Jane has already started focusing on casting to become an expert in that area. Eventually, she’d also like to take on additional roles, such as helping attract more young people to the steel industry. But she doesn’t see herself ever leaving the steel plant.
“No, this job gets a 10 out of 10 from me. I’ll probably stay here forever!”
Byline:
Text: Johanna Paues Darlington / Splay One
Photo: Richard Paulsson/Ovako
Fun Facts about Jane:
- Name: Jane Jönsson Valencik
- Role: Process Engineer at Ovako’s Hofors facility
- Education: MSc in Materials Design, KTH
- Residence: Hofors, for nearly a year
- Hobbies: Singing in a choir, drawing, and spending time in nature
- Best work experience so far: Getting to be out in production!
