Narendran “Naren” began his journey at Valmet Automotive in April 2023 as a Senior Project Engineer in the plant’s Body Shop. His courage to take on new challenges and his eagerness to learn have propelled him forward and opened new opportunities in international environments.
A MULTI-STAGE JOURNEY FROM INDIA TO UUSIKAUPUNKI
Naren’s interest in cars began already in his childhood in southern India and later led him to study mechanical engineering. Before joining Valmet Automotive, he worked in India in various Design and Lead Engineering roles within the automotive industry.
While working in India, Naren participated in a project led by Valmet Automotive and was responsible for managing a sub-project. As cooperation deepened, a project engineer position opened in the Body Shop at Valmet Automotive, and Naren decided to apply. This choice meant moving to Finland and beginning a new chapter in his career.
At Valmet Automotive, Naren was particularly drawn to the opportunity to work in an international and flexible environment where he could continuously develop his expertise.
“I feel that Valmet Automotive offers a truly global working environment where I can make use of my experience while continuing to grow professionally”, Naren describes the development in his career path.
DIVERSE PROJECTS AND CONTINUOUS LEARNING BRING REWARD
In his work, Naren is responsible for leading industrial solution projects and collaborating with customers on technical solutions for the Body Shop.
Naren says the best part of his job is being able to draw on the knowledge and skills he has gained from previous experience every single day. He also finds the variety of projects particularly rewarding.
“The most challenging but also rewarding part of my work is the diversity of the projects. Coordinating different teams and cultures keeps my mind sharp and teaches me something new all the time. Success requires both technical insight and the ability to work with different people.”
A WORK CULTURE THAT ENCOURAGES GROWTH AND COLLABORATION
Naren describes Valmet Automotive as an excellent place to develop both career and professional skills. He is especially motivated by the company culture, which encourages taking responsibility and making use of one’s expertise.
“The work environment is flexible and supportive. Here, we trust in people’s ability to lead and take responsibility for their own work. This can enable freedom, but also opportunities to grow.”
Building a career in a new country has been possible above all with courage. The work community has been welcoming and cooperative, and it has been possible to rely on colleagues. Naren also highlights the importance of open communication, as his role requires not only technical expertise but also strong interpersonal skills.
To balance his work, Naren heads to the gym, immerses himself in reading, and takes public speaking courses. Spending time with people is also important to him, both at work and in his free time.
Naren’s story is a great example of how courage and a desire to learn can take you far. In a new country and culture, he has grown as a professional in an environment where trust, internationality, and collaboration create the foundation for growth and development.