A farewell full of possibilities: see the pictures of our many new engineers
Many newly graduated engineers from Aarhus University are now ready to make their mark on a world that needs their knowledge and engagement.
They were celebrated with applause, sparkling wine and inspiring speeches across Aarhus University, where families, friends, lecturers and researchers gathered to send off our many new engineers. Graduation is not just the end of an education – it is the beginning of a working life with impact.
For Andreas Bagge, the programme has brought both academic strength and a meaningful everyday life. He just graduated as a BEng in Software Technology and already works at Danske Bank:
“Besides the strong community with my fellow students, which motivated me and strengthened me academically, the education in software technology has given me a solid technical toolbox. I’ve learned to build robust software systems and understand complex data structures – skills I already apply in my job.”
A critical role in society
More engineers like Andreas are needed. The labour market already feels the shortage, and the green and digital transitions are increasing the demand for technological competences.
That’s why the message from Dean Eskild Holm Nielsen to the graduates was clear:
“Everyone knows how much it takes to complete an engineering degree. That is something our graduates should be proud of. They step into a world where their knowledge makes a difference – from energy and climate to health and digital infrastructure. My advice to them is: Stay curious and keep asking questions. That way, they will continue to grow – and help society grow, too.”
This curiosity and desire to change the world echoed through many of the speeches and conversations during the ceremony. At the university’s four engineering departments, the mood was both reflective and forward-looking, filled with warm advice and ambitious hopes.
New paths, strong communities
During their studies, many students have formed strong bonds – both academically and personally. And this sense of community was clearly still present on graduation day. It was also a recurring theme in the speeches from heads of department and faculty, who encouraged the graduates to take their collaborative skills and eagerness to learn with them into the professional world.
Their expertise is more in demand than ever. Society is in the midst of a rapidly accelerating green and digital transformation – and at the same time, the world faces geopolitical crises, energy insecurity and climate change. Engineers play a key role in developing the solutions that can make our societies more resilient, more sustainable, and better prepared for the future.
It is no surprise that many graduates have already landed their first jobs – from software development and medtech to energy planning and sustainable construction.
Among those already putting their knowledge into practice are Sofie Kjær Vesterbæk and Charlotte Quorning, the first graduates from the new specialisation in sustainable construction at the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering. Their final project explored how renovation and subdivision of single-family homes can help solve both the housing and climate crises.
“It’s been incredibly exciting to specialise in sustainability – even though it was a bit of a gamble. We didn’t know exactly what we were signing up for, but we’ve never regretted it,” they say.
The project has been praised for its innovative approach and relevance – and it shows how an engineering mindset can create concrete solutions to complex societal problems.
“We know we’ll meet some real-world resistance out there, but we feel well prepared and ready to help move the industry forward,” they say.
Stay connected
AU Engineering congratulates all of our graduates and encourages you to stay in touch. Sign up as an alum and follow us on LinkedIn. We look forward to hearing from you again – perhaps as collaborators, guest lecturers or colleagues.