Our Student Assistants work part-time alongside their university studies, gaining hands-on experience directly connected to their fields. It’s a model that allows students to apply classroom theory to live projects while building confidence, practical skills and professional direction.

In this Q&A, we speak with two of our current Student Assistants about their experiences – Caroline Minh, who works within our strategy and analytics team, and Maciej Michalik, who is part of our finance department.

Can you tell me a bit about your role at Stillstrom and how you first heard about the position?

Caroline: I’m currently an intern in Stillstrom’s Strategy & Analytics team alongside my BSc studies in International Shipping and Trade at CBS. In my role, I support a variety of strategic and analytical projects, working closely with teams across the organisation as well as external partners.

I first learned about Stillstrom when I met Sine Brandt, Head of Marketing & Communications, and Rasmus Tafteberg Sørensen, Market Analyst, at a CBS meet‑and‑greet event. Their insights into Stillstrom’s mission and their perspective on accelerating the green transition in the maritime sector resonated strongly with me. Their passion for the company’s vision was a key reason why I decided to pursue the internship.

Maciej: I am currently working as a Student Assistant in the Finance Department, where I support both the Finance Manager and the CFO with financial reporting and the standardisation of payment and procurement processes. In addition, I develop internal financial models and tools that support future decision-making and contribute to business case development.

I first learned about Stillstrom through its LinkedIn profile and was immediately impressed by the company’s mission to deliver a revolutionary and sustainable charging solution for vessels. The opportunity to contribute to an organisation with such a strong purpose and tangible environmental impact made me very eager to join and contribute in a meaningful way.

What’s something you’ve learned in this role that you wouldn’t have learned in the classroom?

Caroline: One thing I’ve learned in this role that I wouldn’t have learned in the classroom is how to work in a fast‑moving, real‑world environment where decisions have to be made quickly and often with limited information. I’ve learned how to apply strategic tools in practice, collaborate across different teams, and understand how commercial, technical, and regulatory factors come together in real projects. That hands‑on experience, especially in an industry going through such rapid change, is something you can only gain by working directly in the field.

Maciej: One of the most important things I have learned is how to collaborate effectively within a team to deliver concrete results. Working in a fast-paced environment like Stillstrom has taught me how to act quickly, prioritise tasks, and deliver high-quality outcomes while ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and satisfied with the result.

This practical exposure to real business dynamics and cross-functional collaboration is something that cannot be fully replicated in a classroom setting.

What first piqued your interest in the energy/maritime industry?

Caroline: During my studies, I became increasingly aware of how significant the maritime sector is in global emissions. At the same time, I learned how rapidly the industry is evolving with stricter regulations, new technologies, and a growing push toward sustainable solutions. Even though progress is accelerating, there is still a long way to go, and that challenge really motivated me. I wanted to be part of an industry in transition and contribute to the journey toward a cleaner and more responsible maritime future.

Maciej: While researching Stillstrom, I was impressed by how rapidly the maritime industry is evolving and how strongly technological advancements are shaping its future. The industry’s growing focus on sustainability aligns closely with my personal values and reinforced my desire to support the development of more sustainable solutions within the maritime and energy sectors.

What excites you most about the future of your field?

Caroline: What excites me most is how rapidly the landscape is changing. Stronger regulatory frameworks are pushing larger industry players to take bolder, more decisive steps toward decarbonisation. This momentum creates a unique opportunity for innovative companies like Stillstrom, whose solutions directly support the green transition. Being part of a field where regulation, technology, and market demand are all accelerating at the same time makes the future incredibly dynamic and inspiring to work in.

Maciej: What excites me most is the speed at which the industry is transforming through innovation, sustainability-driven regulation, and technological progress. The growing commitment to decarbonisation, combined with rapid advancements in energy solutions, creates real opportunities to make a measurable impact.

What advice would you give to other students who are considering applying for a student assistant position?

Caroline: If you’re interested in contributing to the maritime industry’s journey toward net zero, I would definitely encourage you to apply. At Stillstrom, you get the unique combination of working in a fast‑moving tech startup while being part of the broader Maersk ecosystem. That means you’re trusted with real responsibility from day one, and the learning curve is steep but extremely rewarding. It’s a great opportunity for students who want hands‑on experience, impact, and rapid professional and personal development.

Maciej: I would strongly encourage students to apply, as Stillstrom is a unique and rewarding place to learn while feeling that your work truly matters. From my own experience, it is highly motivating to receive strong support from colleagues and to be trusted with meaningful responsibilities early on. It is an excellent opportunity for students who want to gain hands-on experience, develop professionally, and contribute to a company with strong values and real impact within the maritime industry.