Navn: Vesselin Cholakov
Bosted: Jørpeland
Yrke/arbeidstittel: Electronics Hardware developer
Nåværende arbeidsgiver: WestControl
Previously work experience: Approx 20 years of Electronics research and product development. Apart from Westcontrol Vesko has worked with, amongst others, BMW, Peugeot Citroen, AEG, IDS, Dellorto and Raysat.
Vesko first came to Strand, Rogaland from Sofia, Bulgaria on a cold winters evening in Jan 2010. He is now working as a Senior Engineer at Westcontrol in Tau and his family are now also living here.
1. How was it that you first came in contact with ASAP and Westcontrol?
I was checking job openings for an electronics designer and came across the add at Eures – the European job portal. ASAP was looking for a designer to work at Westcotrol with the prospect of a permanent contract.
2. What motivated you to take this opportunity?
Frankly, I had not thought of coming to Norway at all. First of all, I was attracted by the description of the job, that was my number one priority. The job required a great deal of creativity in a fast growing flexible company. Now, after more than a year on this job, I can say, it is exactly what the add said it would be. Second, all my life I had been living in comparatively big cities, full of people, and I have always wanted to get away from the crowds. The population density in Norway seemed very appealing. The mountains and the fjords did not leave much room for hesitation.
3. Moving your family to Norway must have been a big challenge, can you describe briefly this experience?
The hardest thing was to make the decision that we are moving. I lived alone here for almost six months. It could not go on like this. So, my wife left her job and she and my daughter joined me. As a family, we are probably more curious and adventurous, than thinking things over too much. Finally, we simply locked the apartment in Sofia and landed here with just the luggage you can take with you on the plane.
4. What are the main personal qualities that you use in your role as an Electronics Development Engineer?
I would say curiosity, creativity and persistence. I look for professional challenges and I do not like routine.
5. What are the main differences between working in Norway to Bulgaria?
Most of the companies operating in this field in Bulgaria are subsidiaries of big international companies and have a rather traditional approach to a work which is essentially very creative. Most of the differences are actually very superficial – in Sofia it generally took me longer to get to work, because of the distance and traffic. Also, in Bulgaria the working day is longer.
6. What advice do you have for other foreign people considering a move to Norway?
First of all, they need to try and find out about what living and working in Norway means. They should try to imagine their life here, what they would do, where they would live, where their children would study, what they would do in their free time. There is a principle, which always applies and in our case it is: When in Norway, do as the Norwegians. My advice is: Norway is a beautiful country. If you like to enjoy the nature around you – this is your place. If you want to raise your children in a fun and safe place – this is your place. If you look for a good balance between the time you spend at work and the time you have for your family – this is your place.
7. How can the local authorities and especially Strand Kommune be more helpful for new families settling in this area?
Norwegian is key to living in Norway. It would be very helpful if Norwegian language courses are more affordable for professionals from the EU and their family members.
It would be helpful to have a booklet with information about:
- important local offices and deadlines
- local traditions, celebrations and events
- local cuisine and food products – what they are, where to find them and what to do with them
- clubs and activities, which offer people opportunities to meet and do things together.
8. Can you tell us a little about your spare time and interests out of work?
We like hiking and traveling. We did it in Bulgaria, we do it here. In the weekends we explore the numerous paths around, when we have more time – we travel. We’ve been to Preikestolen and Kjerag and we are planning to go to Bergen when it gets warmer. We’ve recently discovered the joy of “polse” on an “engangsgrill”. Lastly can you think of a short quote that we could use about what ASAP has been helpful with for you?
ASAP has truly initiated me into working and living in Norway – from the moment I stepped out of the plane through settling here with my family. ASAP takes care of its people!