Spotlight on the Women of Bristow: Nina Sunde

In honor of Women's History Month, Bristow is shining a spotlight on the women who make Bristow soar. This interview features Supervisor Operations Centre Nina Sunde from our Sola operations in Norway.

Talk about your role at Bristow and what are you currently working on?

I work as an Operation Centre Supervisor and lead a team that handles all contracts and the flying program for Bristow’s Norway operations. I ensure our Operations Centre runs in a safe, professional and efficient manner day-by-day. We make sure Bristow follows our customers contractual requirements together with Bristow internal rules and regulations. One of my most important roles is creating a good working environment for the Operations Centre, including maintaining equipment in good working condition and updating procedures as needed. I’m also responsible for interactions with our customers and keeping them happy.

What is a recent success you're particularly proud of?

I’m very proud of the positive feedback the Operations Centre receives from customers praising our quality service, fast delivery and response and collaborating with them to solve difficult problems.

What in your background prepared you for this assignment?

I came from an oil company to Bristow in 1995. I was new to the aviation industry and eager to learn! I started my Bristow career in the Traffic department and spent nearly two years there before joining the Operations Centre. I stepped into the role of Operations Centre Supervisor in 2014, and I’ve been enjoying leading the team ever since.

What are some challenges you’ve faced in your career? How did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge is when we lose contracts and the process we then must go through. In this situation, collaboration is critical. We work together and ensure everyone is heard and taken care of. We create solutions for the organizations that work for everyone. It is challenging, but we get it done as a team.

Operational challenges such as weather, technical issues on several aircrafts and staffing issues can be frustrating at times, but keeping a good attitude, no matter what the day throws at you, is critical. It’s also critical to be creative and be persistent. There is always a solution – we just have to find it!

What advice do you have for women just beginning their career?

Be positive and stay engaged. Never be afraid of a challenge and never give up.

As women, we must have the courage to stand up and be bold while trusting ourselves. A positive attitude combined with courage will take you very far!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I like to relax with my family and friends. I like to travel. I love sun and summer! Since we don’t get much of that in Stavanger, I travel a couple of times a year to Gran Canarias to enjoy the sunshine and warmth. I also enjoy exploring Europe. Some of my favorite places are Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Croatia. I love a good girls’ trip to Oslo, London, Copenhagen or Prague.

I have a cottage in Rennesøy, which is a 30-minute drive from my home. Located in the countryside by the sea, it used to be a small farm and has a gorgeous view of the fjord and surrounding nature. I look forward to opening the cottage every spring. I enjoy taking in the views on the patio, hiking the nearby trails and eating crab I caught myself.