- October 28, 2023
Learning about marine autonomy in Trondheim, Norway
Erin joined the Aquaculture Robotics group at SINTEF Ocean in Trondheim, Norway, where she worked on developing and integrating code meant for an underwater vehicle to follow a fish in a fish pen. During her internship, she created a guidance law, controller, and dynamic vehicle model in ROS2.
"I met researchers from all over Norway and the world who are interested in similar topics to me. It was amazing getting to chat with them every day at lunch, and everyone I met was very friendly, curious, and supportive. Norwegian culture is very relaxed compared to the US. People don’t make their job their life, and this gives them more time to spend with families, traveling, or just enjoying life."
Erin hoped to use her MISTI Norway experience to explore what she wanted to do in the future, and and she felt that she was successful. "I think I have found a field that I am very interested in, gathered many great contacts in this field, experienced a wonderful country, gained the courage to go on hikes myself but also learned what my limitations are, and can now live independently."
Another motivation for Erin was exploring Norway's natural environment. "Wow, Norway is beautiful! I planned a hike or trip (to get to a hike) for every weekend and I really had a blast exploring the country through the scenery."