On 5 March 2026, Jette Sulkjær will celebrate her 50th anniversary at the BIRN iron foundry in Holstebro. She started as an unskilled worker in the fettling shop in 1976 and has since been part of a significant development – both in the company and in working life at the foundry. Today, she is on a senior scheme and continues to share her vast knowledge with new colleagues and visitors. She is also the first woman in BIRN's history to reach a 50-year anniversary. 

When Jette Sulkjær started at BIRN on 5 March 1976, the work in the fettling shop was physically demanding. Cast items had to be sanded by hand with air chisels, and ergonomics was not a concept that was talked about much.

"I started as an unskilled worker in the fettling shop, where we stood at fixed workbenches and sanded the items manually. It was hard work, but there was a good team spirit, and I felt welcome from day one," says Jette Sulkjær.

Over the years, she has held a number of different roles at BIRN. She has been a health and safety representative, was elected shop steward in 1994 and later became joint shop steward. For a period, she also served as an employee-elected member of the board.

In 2017, she transitioned to service tasks and became responsible for workwear and practical functions in everyday life, among other things. For many years, she has also been in charge of tours of the foundry – first for new employees and now for guests visiting BIRN.

"I have always been curious about why we do things the way we do. When I show guests around, it's not just about pointing out the machines, but about explaining the processes and how they fit together. It's important to understand the big picture," 

Jette Sulkjær, Service employee

A workplace in transition
According to Jette Sulkjær, developments at BIRN have been significant over the past five decades. Whereas the work used to be largely manual and physically demanding, today there has been massive investment in automation, aids and better ergonomics.

A lot has happened. Today, we have grinding robots and technical aids that relieve the strain on employees. There is a strong focus on the working environment and well-being, and that makes a difference in everyday life, she says.

She also highlights the cooperation between management and employees as a key reason why she has chosen to stay with the company for 50 years.

I have always felt that people listen to me. There is respect for the experience gained in production, and we have had good cooperation with both management and the trade union. It means a lot that people work properly with things and find solutions together.

At the beginning of 2024, Jette Sulkjær entered the senior scheme and now works two days a week – and extra when needed. The scheme offers flexibility, but she remains a visible part of everyday life at the foundry.

Group Director Flemming Juel Jensen is delighted to be able to mark this rare anniversary:

"Fifty years at the same company is remarkable in itself. For decades, Jette has contributed to both the development of our workplace and the cohesion among our employees. She has extensive knowledge of our production and culture, which she generously shares with new colleagues and visitors. It is employees like Jette who help create continuity and strength at BIRN.

The anniversary will be celebrated at BIRN on Friday 6 March, when colleagues are invited to a celebration at the company.

Jette Sulkjær turns 70 on the 14th of August and lives in Holstebro.