Father and son engaged in educational endeavors side by side.

Two Carpentry Enthusiasts - Father and Son, Sigurður and Sölvi, on a Fascinating Journey

Get a load of this! Father and son, Sigurður Brynjar Pálsson and Sölvi Steinn Sigurðsson, are carving out their skills at FB's evening school, aiming to construct a guesthouse together at their summerhouse next summer.

Byko's CEO: Sigurður, The Man of Handy Trades

"I harbor an old-school desire to handle DIY maintenance tasks on my own, be it at home or at the family's summerhouse. I rarely take off my carpenter's apron there, as it provides a therapeutic escape from my daily professional responsibilities. I've always had a knack for working with my hands, creating, and crafting," shares Sigurður, who previously worked in construction during his high school years before veering towards a different path and assuming the role of CEO at BYKO.

Sölvi, The Business Student with a Quirk for Woodworking

Sölvi, aged 21, is also pursuing a business degree at the University of Iceland. Sharing his father's passion for hands-on projects, he initially hesitated when offered the chance to join his dad in their study endeavors. However, he eventually decided to take the plunge and seize the opportunity to bond with his father.

"What's it like juggling business administration and carpentry?"

"It's a matched pair, offering a refreshing break from textbooks. Balancing time can be challenging, but with organization and a positive mindset, it's manageable," says Sölvi.

Father and son绑在一起, eagerly participating in hands-on learning. They thoroughly enjoy the experience. mbl.is/Árni Sæberg

"What was it like studying alongside Dad?"

"It's a unique experience, and we have a blast. We show our best selves, and I get to see a different side of my father. It's quality time—the kind I cherish," says Sölvi, with his father nodding in agreement.

"We've always been close and great friends. Studying together has been a pleasure. Normally, parents offer advice and guidance to their children, but in our case, the roles often reverse in school. I often consult my son when I need a second opinion. We exchange ideas, scrutinize assignments, and arrive at mutual conclusions. This exchange has been incredibly rewarding for both of us," shares Sigurður.

Education: Never a Waste of Time

Sigurður admits that the coursework has been demanding but also eye-opening. "The most challenging aspect has been grasping three-dimensional thinking. The basic drawing courses have been toughest, including mastering the ability to draw shapes from multiple angles and understanding real-world dimensions," he confesses.

"Any surprises?"

"How diverse it is, and it caters to individuals from all walks of life. No strength, wisdom, or experience is a prerequisite for enrollment," says Sölvi.

Father and son are gearing up for graduation in the fall of 2023. Sigurður aspires to earn his bachelor's degree, considering a Master's program next. This education will not only enhance his construction skills but also benefit him in his current position at BYKO.

"Why is lifelong learning essential?"

"Every bit of education enriches individuals and broadens their perspectives, which is always valuable. Without a doubt, my carpentry skills will be an asset in my professional life. BYKO clients grapple with construction projects daily, be it home enhancements, new construction, or maintenance. This education will deepen my understanding of their challenges and enable me to offer better assistance. It's crucial that our clients succeed with their projects," says Sigurður.

Sölvi, being a young student, is optimistic about benefiting from his carpentry studies as well. "This knowledge will serve me well in future career prospects or even constructing my own home. I don't have immediate plans to work in carpentry, but who knows what the future brings? Perhaps our 'Fathers on Tour' idea might take flight one day!" he grins.

Sigurður, despite his CEO role at BYKO, continues to express a personal interest in carpentry and DIY tasks at home and at their summerhouse, finding it therapeutic.
Sölvi, who is pursuing a business degree, initially hesitated to join his father in their carpentry studies but found it a refreshing break from textbooks and an opportunity to bond with him.
Father and son, Sigurður and Sölvi, find studying together enjoyable, with Sigurður seeking his son's opinion and input in their carpentry coursework.
Education and self-development, including carpentry, are essential for Sigurður, as he believes it will not only enhance his construction skills but also improve his understanding of clients' challenges at BYKO, benefiting them in their construction projects.
Sölvi, being a young student, sees potential long-term benefits from his carpentry studies, such as serving him well in future career prospects, or even in constructing his own home in the future.