From Modeller to Model Lead: Madelene Stoltenberg's Journey at Terravera

After being engaged in Terravera Foundation for almost three years, the last year as Model Lead, Madelene Stoltenberg is moving on. Looking back, she describes a formative journey that took her from programming her first models to leading projects across a range of Norwegian industries, and even inspired the topic of her master's thesis.

Madelene Stoltenberg has gained valuable experience volunteering in Terravera.

Balancing Studies and Volunteering 

Balancing her studies with her volunteer work at Terravera has, in her words, been a good fit. "It's worked well for me to combine my studies with Terravera. It could get hectic at times when a big project came in, but I enjoy having a lot on my plate, so it suited me well. I've really valued the flexibility of the work, and being able to work from anywhere."

From coding to a master's thesis

Madelene's time at Terravera did not just shape her volunteer experience, it shaped her academic path too. "At Terravera, I started coding and modelling, which I carried with me into my master's thesis. It was also through Terravera that I got the idea for my thesis," she explains. Her thesis examined investments in biochar and their economic profitability.

Skills for the road ahead

Reflecting on what she's taking with her, Madelene points to a broad set of skills built up over her time at Terravera: "I've gained a lot of valuable experience that I'll bring with me in communication, leadership, client dialogue, and experience working in teams with many different technical backgrounds."

Stepping up as Model Lead

Madelene's move into the Model Lead role came naturally after her time as a modeller herself. "It was great to step into the Model Lead role after having been a modeller myself, because I already had a good understanding of how the modelling work happened," she says. As Model Lead, she took on overall responsibility for project progress, following up much like a project manager would. The role also gave her broad exposure to a wide range of exciting industries and sectors “Everything from planes to fish: Norwegian, Stingray, Head Energi, Elivate, and more”. 

What's next

Madelene's next step takes her to DNV, where she will join as a Global Finance Trainee.

Terravera Foundation thanks Madelene for her dedication and the impact she has made over the past years, and wishes her the very best for the future.