Father and son engaged in a learning session together.
Fathers and Sons Unite Over Carpentry and Business
In the sun-drenched land of Iceland, a unique duo is honing their craftsmanship skills at FB's evening school. Father-son pair, Sigurður Brynjar Pálsson, CEO of BYKO, and Sölvi Steinn Sigurðsson, a student at the University of Iceland, are diving deep into the intricacies of carpentry. They plan to join forces next summer, building a cozy guesthouse at their family's summerhouse.
From Corporate Leadership to Carpentry
Sigurður, who once wore a corporate CEO hat, finds joy in taking on a different role—that of a carpenter. "I've always yearned to handle tasks on my own, especially in our family's countryside home. Plunging back into the hands-on world of building is a refreshing escape from my five-day workweek," Sigurður shares, reminiscing about his high school years when he worked for a construction contractor.
learning alongside, not from
Sölvi, a young, ambitious business student, expresses his interest in building and creation. "I never considered delving into carpentry as a career path, but when Dad suggested it, I figured I had nothing to lose. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn alongside my father instead of constantly offering him advice," he says with a smile.
The Ultimate Blend of Mind and Muscles
"Studying business administration and carpentry together has proven to be a perfect match. It's rewarding to take a break from the books and engage in something more physical. Balancing both requires discipline, but with the right approach, the challenges fade away," Sölvi explains.
Bonding Over Carpentry and Class
According to them, schooling alongside their father has been a special experience. "It's been enjoyable spending quality time with my father, learning both as equals and students. Normally, it's parents who guide their children, but in this instance, the roles have been reversed. I've often found myself seeking his opinion when I'm unsure," Sigurður shares.
A Symphony of Skills
Sigurður candidly admits, "The carpentry coursework has been tough, particularly three-dimensional thinking and basic drawing courses. But it's been a transformative experience. It's expanded my perspective on buildings."
"The variety amazes me. This course suits everyone, regardless of their background or experience. I managed to construct a summer house with a team that winter, armed with minimal fundamentals," Sölvi adds.
Education Never Stops
Father and son are marching towards graduation in the fall of 2023. Sigurður aspires to complete his bachelor's degree and potentially pursuit a Master's program. This education will bolster his understanding of the challenges faced by BYKO clients, enhancing his ability to offer better assistance.
Personally, he will be able to tackle household repairs and renovations more efficiently. "Continual learning is vital—it makes you a more well-rounded individual and offers a broader perspective. My carpentry skills will undoubtedly benefit me in my work, helping me understand BYKO customers' needs better," Sigurður emphasizes.
Sölvi, still a budding student, expresses his confidence in the practical value of his carpentry studies. "I see this skillset being useful for years to come, whether it's for future employments or building my dream house. Who knows, my business degree and carpentry skills could even collaborate in creating a family construction firm one day."
- "Sigurður, once a corporate CEO, now finds a refreshing escape from his five-day workweek by handling construction tasks as a carpenter, expressing his personal joy in the hands-on work."
- "Soëlví, a business student, is learning carpentry not just to offer advice but to learn alongside his father, gaining a unique experience and a valuable skill."
- "Combining business studies with carpentry, Soëlví sees it as a perfect match, providing a physical outlet to balance the mental demands of his education."
- "Upon graduation in the fall of 2023, Sigurður and Soëlví will have not only strengthened their father-son bond but also expanded their lifestyle perspectives, preparing for a future of education, self-development, and potentially even a collaboration in the field of education-and-self-development, general-news, or construction."
