Vocational trainee Skaraborg
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Högskolan i Skövde - Högskolan i Skövde Inst f ingenjörsvetenskap |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 839 993 |
| Project duration | January 2023 - June 2025 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Educational collaboration |
| Call | Educational collaboration and work-integrated learning - model and method development 2022 |
Important results from the project
The project achieved its goals by developing a trainee-based WIL model within engineering programmes at the University of Skövde, implemented in two courses. It scaled from 5 to 22 students and 3 to 10 companies, with positive effects for both students and industry. A key synergy was collaboration with new companies in Mariestad via the Chamber of Commerce, generating media coverage, invitations to industry networks, and opportunities for continued cooperation and research.
Expected long term effects
In the long term, WIL will be expanded within the University of Skövde’s engineering programmes through standardised company contacts integrated into courses. A company network is being developed, with several organisations interested in longer WIL formats, such as co-op or summer jobs. This is expected to enhance student learning and employability, support company competence development, and attract more students, particularly women, to engineering programmes.
Approach and implementation
The project developed a generic, course-based WIL model through collaboration between the University of Skövde, University West, and regional manufacturing industry. After evaluating two implementation phases, a scalable model was created, applicable to larger international student groups. The project also generated new networks and contacts, with successful cooperation involving IDC West, the West Sweden Chamber of Commerce, and participating companies.