Hans Jacob combines politics and research to improve cycling networks

What is your job description?

I work as a professional advisor in the secretariat of the Norwegian Cyclists¡¯ Association (Syklistforeningen) in the intersection between politics and research. My tasks are, among other things, to write position papers to showcase where we stand in different cases, and form a knowledge-base for the Norwegian cycling initiative. I also contribute to carry out political work to promote the benefits of increased cycling, both for individuals, but also for the society as a whole. In addition I assist with my professional cycling expertise for actors and stakeholders who are interested in improving cycling facilitation. Currently, I also hold the position as project manager in a collaborative project with the Norwegian Road Administration (Statens vegvesen). In this project we examine the difference between cyclists' perceived safety and actual safety based on the existing cycling infrastructure. 

What is the most exciting thing about your job?

First and foremost, I would like say that I enjoy meeting a lot of people that work in the Norwegian cycling network, both in the public and private spheres, but also across a wide variety of Norwegian municipalities and road authorities. 

I also find working in an interest group exciting in itself because I get the chance to make a positive difference for an initiative that I am very engaged in. I have a fighting spirit when it comes to promoting cyclists¡¯ interests, and working towards the goal of enhancing the bicycling share nationally. The zero growth target, which shall ensure that the growth in passenger transport is to be absorbed by public transport, cycling and walking is a central goal for Norwegian municipalities. I find working for the cycling initiative meaningful because bicycles are, and will be, a  crucial means of transport in the future due to its ability to reduce transport- and energy missions.

How do you use your educational background at work?

I completed a lot of urban studies and planning-courses during both the human geography bachelor¡¯s programme and the master programme. Urban studies and planning was also my field of specialization at the master level, which has been beneficial for the work I am currently doing. The aforementioned courses have also given me a greater understanding of planning processes and public management, which I consider valuable in my job. I also completed two GIS-courses during the programme, both the introductory bachelor level course, and the course that is taught on master level. The teaching materials in these courses have proven useful in terms of visualizing and processing bicycle-related spatial data in my current work. 
 

 What is a typical day at work?
A typical day at my workplace  usually consists of writing position notes and documents where I communicate the association¡¯s political stance on different mobility-related topics. I also attend meetings and seminars, and answer inquiries from cyclists, municipalities and other stakeholders. 
 

How did you get the job?
Prior to my current position I was working as a  bicycle planner in the Agency for Urban Environment (Bymilj?etaten). I got this job during my fourth year at the human geography programme, working as a part-time employee. I was only offered a two-year contract, which ended in July 2023. This job gave me a lot of experience within the field of bicycle planning, which eventually paved the way for my current position in the Norwegian Cyclists¡¯ Association.
 

What are your best tips to students who are looking for your type of job?

My best advice for other students who want my type of job is to be on your toes, show interest and also apply for jobs that are not necessarily advertised. Being an active job seeker before the master¡¯s thesis is submitted can also ensure an easier entry into working life after graduation.

It is also important to look at possibilities, and not on limitations. I got my first relevant job in Bymilj?etaten by sending an open application to the relevant section that was working on the topics I was interested in. I am convinced that my previous work experience, combined with the knowledge I received during my studies, made me an attractive candidate for my current position. This leads me to say that good experience leads to new possibilities.