Schoolteacher, upper secondary school

2001

Teaching credentials, Agder University College

1998-1999

Studies in political science, University of Oslo

1996-1997

Studies in history at Agder University College and University of Bergen

1994-1997

Project supervisor/cultural affairs administration, Arendal International Cultural Centre

1991

First-year law, University of Oslo

Member of the Standing Committee on Education, Research and Church Affairs

Member of Aust-Agder county council

1991-1995

Member of Arendal city council

Chairman of Aust-Agder county council committee

1999-2003

Deputy chairman of committee for health and social affairs, Aust-Agder County

1991-1995

Deputy chairman of cultural affairs commission, city of Arendal

Chairman of Arendal (local) Labour Party

1990-1998

Member or chairman of Labour Youth League and Labour Party organisations and committees at local, county and national level