Tom Lagerbäck Westblom

Job title: Project Manager, at Business Area Support and Services and Business Unit Airborne ISRLocation: Linköping, SwedenEducation: M.Sc. Industrial Management and Engineering

Short personal summaryTom, born and raised in Gävle, Sweden, holds a M.Sc. in Industrial Management and Engineering from Luleå University of Technology. During his studies, he spent one semester in Germany at HTW Berlin, where he took classes in International Business. He is currently stationed in Linköping, employed by the Business Unit Airborne ISR which is a part of the Business Area Support and Services. As a former football/soccer player, he enjoys training and sports in general. Besides that, Tom has a large interest in meeting new people and working with leadership, strategy and technology.

Why did you apply to the graduate programme?I applied to this program partly because it was a great introduction to a professional career, but also because this programme enabled me to work, combine, and capitalize on my largest interests in a global company. To work and develop my leadership skills among products in the forefront of technology together with international experiences was just an amazing opportunity.

How do you think Saab’s graduate programme differs from other companies’ trainee programmes?I would say Saab’s programme differs in the extent that you, together with your manager, have the opportunity to design your own programme adapted to you and your future role. Having this opportunity opens a lot of doors for experiencing large parts of the whole company as you are able to rotate to different sites and different roles both nationally and internationally. At this programme you will also get in touch with products and businesses that is very unique.

What has been the most memorable experience so far?There have been many great experiences, but if I have to pick one I would say my rotation to Market Area (MA) Europe in London. I was able to meet and listen to highly skilled people telling their story of how it is to set up campaigns and sell these kinds of products to a wide range of different customers. To hear the complexity and strategy level of these businesses is fascinating.

What have you gained from participating in the graduate programme?A lot- I have gained a huge, unique experience, personal development, and network.

To whom would you recommend the programme?For those who want to work with leadership and grow as a leader. One of the main purposes with this programme after all is to develop future leaders within Saab. I would also say people who have the will and motivation to drive their own development, and also to those who love to challenge themselves, work abroad, and get out of their comfort zone. There is a huge Saab World to take advantage of if you are just willing to do that.