Anni is spending her second summer at Valmet Automotive’s Uusikaupunki car plant, and has recently graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering from Turku University of Applied Sciences. Originally from Uusikaupunki, she now lives in Laitila and describes herself as energetic, talkative, and efficient.

Anni’s first encounter with Valmet Automotive came during her studies, when her course group carried out a successful audit project for the company. The experience left a positive impression, and when she applied for summer jobs in 2023, Valmet Automotive felt like a natural choice.

  • That summer, I got a trainee position in general assembly process planning, where I completed two professional internships and worked from May to December alongside my studies. Although my education provided a strong theoretical foundation, most of my practical skills have been gained on the job, Anni explains.

In 2024, Anni gained work experience elsewhere and focused on her thesis, which she completed in spring 2025. After that, she decided to apply again for a summer job at Valmet Automotive – and was hired as a production trainee in the body manufacturing paint shop.

  • This summer, I worked in the front-end team in the paint shop. I did not know anyone there at first, but I was warmly welcomed and quickly got to know the people.

Anni’s workdays include a variety of tasks such as recording team working hours, preparing meeting templates, reporting disruptions, and solving different kinds of problems. No two days are the same.

  • My current role is more diverse and otherwise different than my previous positions. Supervisory tasks are completely new to me, but this summer has been incredibly educational. I have had the chance to carry out assistant tasks of a supervisor in practice, and although I have been given more responsibility, the support network is always present – I have never had to manage alone.

Her current role requires her to be physically present in the production environment, and remote work is not a practical option. She feels that both herself and the team benefit from her being on-site. Being present brings clarity, support, and the ability to respond quickly to situations. Community is an important part of Anni’s work life.

  • Our team is warm and close-knit. We spend coffee breaks together in the break room whenever schedules allow. It is a chance to talk also about things other than work.

Her studies in industrial engineering have guided her toward roles in production planning and development, but this summer’s experience has opened up new perspectives.

  • I had not really considered doing supervisory work before, but this summer has been eye-opening. I have really enjoyed the role. In the long term, though, I would still like to try something different.

 

In her free time, Anni plays floorball and football and spends time with her dogs. Sports have always been her way to relax. She warmly recommends Valmet Automotive’s Uusikaupunki plant as a workplace.

  • I have gained valuable hands-on experience here and truly felt like part of the work community. My advice to new summer trainees or interns would be: do not be afraid to ask questions, take initiative, and maintain a positive attitude – it will take you far.

Many of Valmet Automotive’s summer trainees continue with the company after their internship – either working as part-time alongside their studies, thesis writers, or by returning the following summer.