Introductory Period at Metsä Group’s Joutseno Mill Gave Oumaima Valuable Insight into Finnish Working Life

The initiative was led by Senior Lecturer Tapani Heikkilä. The aim is to help international students integrate into Finnish working life already during their studies.

“The number of international students has grown, but they often struggle to find internships or jobs in their field. LAB organises some placements, but we also need new, innovative solutions to strengthen the connection with local working life.”

Paula Kääriä, HR Manager at the Joutseno mill, explains that the introductory period is part of a broader diversity and inclusion effort. International cooperation with educational institutions is also intended to address future recruitment challenges. Demographic trends and birth rates show that labour will increasingly need to come from outside the local area. Therefore, involving international talent is essential.

Three international students were selected for the programme based on their applications. A comprehensive schedule was prepared, allowing them to explore different departments and tasks.

“The programme was carefully planned, and several mentors were involved, which made the week smooth and rewarding for both the students and our staff,” says Kääriä.

A Week with the Team Offered Insight into Work and Workplace Culture

Oumaima Oubihi from Morocco was one of the three students chosen for the week-long introductory period. She is in her fourth year of Industrial Information Technology studies at LAB’s technology unit. Oubihi says she learned about the opportunity via an email from her tutor, and the application process was straightforward.

“I was interested in the ICT field and the company, so I decided to apply.”

During the week, she observed the ICT team’s work at the Joutseno mill, attended meetings, and visited various departments.

“The size of the machines really surprised me – they were much bigger than I had imagined. I also got to visit the pulp bleaching line,” she recalls.

Oubihi felt warmly welcomed:

“Everyone was very friendly and open. We had the chance to chat with employees from different departments during coffee breaks and lunches. It was great to hear about their career paths and experiences.”

She says the week was well organised and everything ran smoothly, even though this was the first time the programme was implemented.

Benefits for Both Companies and Students

Hiring international students requires companies to make certain efforts, such as translating documents and systems into English and ensuring smooth teamwork. Short introductory periods are low-risk and easy to arrange.

“They don’t require major investments but bring significant benefits, such as fresh perspectives, variety in daily routines, and an opportunity to showcase the work outside the company,” notes Kääriä.

The students were active and grateful for the chance to see the mill and its tasks in practice. For many, this was their first experience in a Finnish company, offering new insights. Language skills play an important role in success.

“Although English is the common language, I encourage students to learn Finnish if they plan to work here,” Kääriä adds.

During the week, Oubihi learned a lot about Finnish work culture.

“Coffee breaks were new to me, and punctuality really stood out.”

The experience also broadened her future plans:

“I’m now even more interested in the ICT field and more open to different types of companies. I see opportunities more widely.”

A Successful Week Led to Employment

There were no major challenges during the week. The student hopes similar programmes will be organised more often and for more participants.

“The week strengthened my desire to work in Finland in the future and possibly apply for further studies here.”

Kääriä says the Joutseno mill has already piloted a longer summer placement:

“We selected one student from the introductory period for a six-month employment contract, and the pilot was very successful.”

Metsä Group and LAB will continue to develop their cooperation.

“We hope for close and dynamic collaboration, where we boldly test new models. It would be great if as many international students as possible found their way into local companies and stayed here to work.”

Heikkilä reflects that learning and educational structures are undergoing a transformation, and LAB is developing new approaches to meet these challenges.

“I want to encourage all companies to join this work-life-oriented initiative, as the experiences have been positive. I deeply appreciate the attitude and willingness of the Joutseno mill staff to try out this model.”