Ex-Benchmark Holdings boss joins Aquaticode as advisor
Trond Williksen will help bring company's technology to wider market
Technology company Aquaticode has hired Trond Williksen as a strategic advisor. The company develops systems for real-time phenotyping and sorting of salmon, and says in a press release that the appointment is part of the effort to bring the technology into broad use in the industry.
Williksen has over 20 years of experience in the aquaculture sector, including as chief executive of equipment supplier AKVA group, fish farmer SalMar, and UK-registered aquaculture biotechnology group Benchmark Holdings. At the latter, he led the company through a comprehensive restructuring and transfer to private ownership earlier this year.
"Trond has worked at all levels – from farming and technology to genetics and fish health – and that breadth is rare," said Stian Rognlid, chief executive of Aquaticode.
“As AI-based phenotyping becomes part of daily operations, his insight into how farmers think and invest will be invaluable. His experience will help us translate innovation into practical improvements on the farm and help make intelligent sorting a natural part of everyday life in the industry.”
Unleashing the potential
Aquaticode launched the SORTpro system in 2023, which combines image processing, deep learning, and robotics to identify traits and sort large quantities of fish. According to the company, the technology is already being used by several of the world's largest salmon farmers.
Williksen highlights the potential for better fish welfare and lower mortality as an important reason for taking on the role.
"I am joining Aquaticode because this team creates real biological and commercial results," said Williksen.
"AI phenotyping gives farmers new insights into fish traits that directly affect survival, welfare and growth. With better selection, Norway’s goal of reducing mortality in the sea phase from around 16% to 5% is not just theoretical – it is achievable. It is an ambition worth working towards, and Aquaticode has a strong foundation to make it possible."
Experienced advisory team
Williksen will be part of an advisory team that already includes, among others, Einar Wathne, former chief executive of Cargill's aquaculture division.
"I have followed Aquaticode's technology from proof-of-concept to full-scale implementation, and Trond's entry strengthens our ability to make phenotype intelligence part of daily operations in aquaculture. The combination of extensive data base and deep industry experience now gives farmers the confidence to invest and use the technology," said Wathne.
