A new collaboration project creates recruitment pathways for energy sector companies in Ostrobothnia
The joint development project by E2 Research and Wärtsilä Finland Oy aims to enhance the competitiveness of companies within Vaasa's energy cluster through a new form of collaboration. The project seeks ways to ensure an adequate supply of skilled professionals for both Wärtsilä and its network companies. At the same time, it aims to create an operational model that can be utilized nationwide, enabling leading regional companies to support the success of their network companies in a new way.
The project, "International Workforce for Energy Sector Companies in Ostrobothnia," was initiated through the collaboration of Kai Kamila from Wärtsilä Finland Oy and Mari K. Niemi from E2 Research. They were inspired by the idea of a model in which regional actors —whether in Vaasa or elsewhere in Finland — could jointly take responsibility for the availability of skilled professionals, career pathways, and employment opportunities for spouses. The model is designed with leading companies like Wärtsilä in mind, for whom the development of network companies and their access to a skilled workforce are also crucial.
The project, which started in January 2025, is funded by the AEL Foundation (AEL-säätiö). In its first phase, efforts will focus on developing recruitment pathways for skilled professionals in Ostrobothnia, involving Wärtsilä’s network companies and key stakeholders. In the next phase, E2 Research will introduce the operational models to other leading companies. Business Finland’s Work in Finland unit is also participating in the collaboration.
“The shortage of skilled professionals can become a serious barrier to growth for both Ostrobothnia and Finland. Wärtsilä wants to do its part in ensuring the availability of a skilled workforce. Finland’s and Ostrobothnia’s attractiveness will strengthen when we take joint responsibility for the career development of skilled professionals moving here and find solutions together for the employment of their spouses.”
Kai Kamila, Lead HR Business Partner, Energy Services, Wärtsilä Finland Oy
“Ostrobothnia and the Vaasa region are excellent places to develop new models aimed at ensuring access to skilled professionals on a national scale. Since the regional actors already collaborate actively, our work will get off to a flying start. The commitment of a leading company like Wärtsilä provides a strong foundation for this initiative.”
Mari K. Niemi, Director, E2 Research
“At the AEL Foundation, we aim to enhance the competitiveness of Finnish society and create success in working life. In this project, the collaboration between companies and stakeholders in addressing the skills shortage is particularly valuable. The initiative has the potential to benefit not only Ostrobothnia but also Finland as a whole.”
Riikka Heikinheimo, Board Member, AEL Foundation
“Ensuring the availability of skilled professionals is at the core of Work in Finland’s mission. Talented individuals enable companies to grow and develop while also attracting investments. If a country or region cannot secure a sufficient skilled workforce, investments will not materialize. That is why we are eager to help develop models that address skills shortage. Leading companies play a crucial role in setting the direction for their ecosystems’ capabilities in attracting and recruiting international talent.”
Laura Lindeman, Director, Work in Finland Unit, Business Finland
More information about the project
Mari K. Niemi
Director, E2 Research
+44 7737161944 (Also on WhatsApp)
Mari.K.Niemi@e2.fi