Meet Julie – the astrophysicist who found her calling in defence tech

Julie Grønn Knutsen is a Product Owner for NORA, Teleplan Globe's police portfolio. With a degree in astrophysics, you might not expect to find her working in defence technology – so what in the stars brought her here?

"Ha ha, good question!" laughs Julie.

"It was actually pure chance. This definitely wasn't on my radar when I was studying astrophysics. But I live in the moment – and Teleplan seemed like an exciting challenge. I'm so glad I took the opportunity!"

We'll come back to just how happy Julie is with that decision – because when she talks about her employer, you can hear the genuine passion in her voice. But first: How did she find her way to Teleplan?

An unexpected career path

"I'd just finished my bachelor's degree in astrophysics and felt some pressure in the field to continue with a master's. But I was eager to get out into the real world and gain practical experience. At a career day at university, I met recruiters who worked with Teleplan Globe."

Julie's father spent over 20 years in the Armed Forces and knew Teleplan well – both from using their solutions on duty and through former colleagues who'd joined the company. He spoke very highly of Teleplan, which sparked Julie's curiosity.

The feeling was mutual, and Julie joined as a consultant coordinator in 2019. She was also quickly thrown into recruitment, travelling to universities to promote Teleplan and immersing herself in the company's solutions and technology.

Her enthusiasm and capability didn't go unnoticed. Julie quickly progressed through business development and project management roles before becoming Product Owner for NORA in 2023.

"I thrive on learning and tackling new challenges. Being thrown in at the deep end and testing myself – that's when I'm at my best," she explains.

Julie on Teleplan

Three words to describe the culture: Generous, social and down-to-earth.

The best thing about working here: Amazing colleagues who always have each other's backs and knowing we're making a real difference.

Advice for job seekers: Don't wait until you tick every box. We value personality and potential over perfection. Our leaders believe in developing talent, not just hiring it. What matters is finding people who work well together – that's when the magic happens!

Making a real difference 

Back to Julie's fondness for Teleplan. Her enthusiasm peaks when she talks about the impact of their work. She's particularly proud of the national secure chat solution she helped develop for the Norwegian police – a system with up to 20,000 potential users.

"The police tell us their crimedetection rates have improved directly because of our solution. Officers can instantly share photos and videos and communicate securely across teams and departments – it's making a tangible difference to public safety."

But it's not just the meaningful work that keeps Julie motivated. It's the people and culture, too.

"At Teleplan, help is always available. It's embedded in our DNA. People genuinely want to support each other, and there's incredible team spirit. I've never felt alone here."

Finding her place 

At just 29, Julie is clear that her rapid career progression wouldn't have happened elsewhere.

"I feel incredibly fortunate to have found Teleplan. The opportunities and growth I've experienced in just 5-6 years feel unique. I can't imagine another company where I could have achieved so much so quickly."

She describes it as an extraordinary place to work, filled with brilliant people across every department.

"My friends are always amazed when I talk about my job. I've lost count of how many times I've heard 'Do they need a teacher? A nurse? A doctor? A physiotherapist?'" Julie laughs.

Fun facts about Julie

Superpower at work: I dive straight into new challenges, and I'm great at juggling multiple projects. Plus, strong communication skills – they'll take you far!

Favourite app: Google Maps. I rely on it for everything, anywhere in the world – ETAs, public transport, nearby restaurants and shops ... especially since my sense of direction is not great.

Dream destination: I've already ticked off many bucket list destinations, but South America – especially Peru – and the Caribbean are still on my list.

On my nightstand: Currently a book from the Mino series by Gert Nygårdshaug, plus my wireless phone charger.

Can't work without: Energy drinks. I'm completely addicted.

3 desert island essentials: When I watched Survivor as a kid, I always thought I'd want a hairbrush. And I guess a machete would be a good idea. And maybe a toothbrush. The ex-military guys at work will think I'm hopeless reading this! If I ever get stranded, I'm counting on them to rescue me!

Guilty pleasure: I'm obsessed with Gilde's skinless dinner sausages. I eat them straight from the packet, cold. Or on bread with a thick layer of butter!