Tomi Kolehmainen, Assembly Technician

I am Tomi Kolehmainen, and I work in assembly and installation of harvester heads at Outokummun Metalli. I started my career here in 1999, and I’ve continued on the same path ever since. A long career shows that I’ve been happy here.

Employer’s commitment to well-being and working conditions

From my experience, Outokummun Metalli is a workplace where employees are cared for, and things are handled well on both sides. The employer has invested heavily in factors affecting the working conditions, such as ergonomics, tools, and machines. The physical strain of the work has significantly decreased over the years, and the company works to ensure that employees stay in good shape and are content. The employee benefits are also great.

Following in my father’s footsteps into the metal industry

I am actually a second-generation Outokummun Metalli worker, as my father worked here as a welder, and following his example, I chose this field. I first completed a basic education in metalworking at vocational school and then switched to an apprenticeship at Outokummun Metalli for training as a machine assembler. Since then, I have worked in assembly and have closely followed how product development has made harvester heads more technical. In the past, everything was mechanical, but today, products contain more automation and electronics.

Key skills in assembly work

Manual skills, the ability to read drawings, precision, and attention to detail are important in assembly work. General interest in technology and machinery is also helpful. What motivates me most is seeing the results of my work in the products as they leave the factory. If you want to succeed in this industry, it’s important to have the desire to learn new things. It’s worth investigating things on your own, but also asking for help when needed. Paying attention to quality from the start is essential because only top-quality products can meet today’s standards.

Relaxing in my free time

In my free time, I enjoy cycling in the summer and ice swimming in the winter. I also engage in geocaching from time to time, which provides a nice change of pace and takes me into nature to relax.

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