This summer, I’m working as a UX/UI Design intern at Flexpenser AB, a cleantech startup based in Stockholm that specializes in innovative dispensing technology. Flexpenser’s products are designed for industries like pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics, offering precision, sustainability, and efficiency through their valve system. Although this role doesn’t align perfectly with the type of company I initially imagined myself working for, I hope it will turn out to be a unique and meaningful opportunity to grow my skills.

My main focus is designing pages for Flexpenser’s website, translating highly technical product information into a clear, engaging user experience for businesses. Since the company is relatively small and outside the tech sphere, I’ve been given the freedom to take ownership of this project and shape it in a way that not only serves the company’s needs but also reflects my own design values. What makes this experience unique is the interdisciplinary nature of the work. To design something effective, I need to understand not just the visual goals, but also the technology, the business model, and how to communicate the product’s function clearly to end users. That means regular collaboration with engineers, marketing, and the executive team, asking questions, and seeking clarification. This kind of communication is crucial, especially since the technical content is well outside my usual scope. It’s a challenge, but could also be one of the most rewarding aspects of the internship.

Working in Sweden’s engineering and cleantech sector also requires a few core competencies that I’ve quickly come to appreciate. First, interdisciplinary thinking is essential. Designers need to grasp how their work fits into larger systems, whether that’s product development, packaging, or environmental regulation. Second, clear and consistent communication is key, especially in flat hierarchy organizations like many Swedish companies, where collaboration and transparency are part of the culture. An awareness of sustainability is also non-negotiable. In Sweden, sustainability is a design principle. Every decision must consider environmental impact, and that extends to how we present and explain products to the world.

While this internship may not be a traditional path for someone interested in tech or UI/UX, it will be eye-opening to see how impactful design can be in sectors like cleantech. I’m learning how to bridge the gap between technical expertise and user understanding, how to contribute meaningfully to a mission-driven startup, and how to design with both purpose and precision.