A recent study by the Finnish Association of Electrical and Telecommunication Contractors (STUL ry) sheds light on a concerning trend: the competence level of graduates entering the electrical sector is declining, which in the worst case scenario could pose a threat to electrical safety. The industry is facing a growing shortage of skilled professionals, driven by natural retirements and the increased demand for labour due to the green transition. This shortage is being exacerbated by cuts in educational resources and a lack of collaboration between educational institutions and businesses.
Interviews conducted by STUL with teachers, company representatives, and industry stakeholders reveal a worrying picture: reductions in face-to-face teaching, a focus on quantity over quality, and insufficient practical training are eroding the quality of education. In a sector like electrical engineering, where safety and technical skills are closely intertwined, practical skills simply cannot be acquired remotely. Theoretical knowledge alone is not enough; hands-on learning is essential, and the current system risks producing graduates who are not sufficiently prepared for the demands of the job.
Finland’s educational system must bridge the gap with the labour market
The report highlights a specific challenge for Finland: while the country is known for its strong education system, the rapid evolution of the electrical industry – with technologies such as solar power systems and EV charging infrastructure – is not fully reflected in curricula. This disconnect is problematic, as companies urgently need employees who are up to date with the latest technologies. Both educational institutions and businesses express a desire for closer cooperation, but current resources often fall short.
Strengthening collaboration could involve regular meetings, joint projects, and hands-on training in real work environments. In some cases, such initiatives have improved students’ employability, but good practices have yet to spread widely across the sector.
The green transition in Finland depends on skilled professionals
Finland has ambitious goals for its green transition and electrification of society, from expanding renewable energy solutions to upgrading its grid and rolling out EV infrastructure. Yet these ambitions hinge on having a workforce with the necessary skills to implement these changes safely and effectively. The current trends in education raise a critical question: is the Finnish education system equipped to meet the future demand for skilled and safety-conscious professionals in the electrical sector?
STUL’s message is clear: practical skills cannot be taught solely through remote learning. The structure of education must be reformed to support real-world readiness, and Finland needs targeted investments in education, stronger partnerships between businesses and schools, and more flexible training models that reflect the rapidly evolving needs of the industry.
The skills shortage in the Finnish electrical sector is not just an education problem – it is a societal challenge that requires swift action to ensure the country can seize the opportunities of the green transition while maintaining the high standards of safety and quality that Finland is known for.
