Suvi, Internship in Research and Development

Could you tell us a little about your internship project at Vaisala?

I worked the summer at the product development of Vaisala, together with another Giant Leap intern. Our project was divided in two parts, which were related to the same topic: development of the product development process. Firstly, we harmonized and standardized product development processes.  Secondly, we analyzed the management and development of the unit's product portfolio. We carried out our work by interviewing stakeholder reps, carrying out a literature review and chipping in with our own ideas as well.

What made you interested in the Giant Leap internship program?

Since the beginning from my studies, I've always found Vaisala a most attractive prospective employer, owing to Vaisala's reputation as a company that commands top-level competence in the field of high technology in Finland. Vaisala is globally a top player in its field, and the inputs it makes in product development are exceptionally abundant. Moreover, I felt I had good prospects for completing the final project for my Master's thesis while with the company – Vaisala has long traditions in supporting science and many thesis projects are completed annually on a scholarship under the company’s auspices. When I compared different internship opportunities with one another, Vaisala’s innovation, high degree of competence and company values really made a big impression.

What is your educational background? Do you feel you could apply your skills and knowledge during your time at Vaisala?

I study at the Helsinki University of Technology, majoring in semiconductor technology at the Micro and Nanosciences Lab. As a minor subject, I’ve selected organizational behavior and knowledge management studies at the laboratory of work psychology of HUT's Department of Industrial Engineering and Management. The internship projects were not directly related to my major, but the knowledge I've acquired through my minor have been most useful in contemplating the best approaches in a working environment of multiple actors and roles.

What have you learned from the internship?

Before my internship I was only familiar with the basic principle of product portfolio management. Everything else I have learned through the Giant Leap project. Taking up something entirely new was most fascinating and challenging. I’ve obtained useful information from within the company, but also from others working on the subject, and from external sources, too. During the summer I became familiar with Vaisala’s ways of working, in terms of both people and products, which now facilitates my further engagement at Vaisala as a thesis project worker.

How would you describe Vaisala as an employer to students who are seeking an internship?

At Vaisala you get to work with sharp-witted and incisive people, and such people are also sought for the company. Scientific competence and innovation are highly valued, and self-development is encouraged. The company aims to continually develop measures and procedures to guarantee growth and success. The Giant Leap internship program offers a wide selection of projects from many different fields. The competition for internships is stiff, as there are plenty of competent and highly driven students looking to participate in the program.