From theory into practice – Embracing growth

Our Project Professional Trainee Program 2023 started in April, and we’ve had a diverse group of students with different study backgrounds taking part in the program. Janita Rantala is one of the trainees and she wanted to share few things about her experiences of the program from a business administration student’s perspective. Let’s hear what Janita has to say!

Who are you and what is your background?

“Hi! My name is Janita, and I am one of the trainees in Valmet’s Project Professional Trainee Program. My educational background is from the field of business administration. The start of the trainee program in April gave me a much-needed last push to finalize my master’s studies and accordingly, I graduated with an MBA degree in May.”

What are your main tasks as a Project Professional Trainee (PRO Trainee)?

“I am part of Valmet’s Service business line in Rautpohja, Jyväskylä. My tasks as a PRO trainee are centered around Microsoft Power BI reporting. After a month-long orientation period, I began to familiarize myself to the reporting needs and began interviewing professionals from other teams and business units about the topic. Currently, the project has evolved from the mapping phase to development phase, and I am eager to see how it turns out.”

Being in the beginning of my professional career I value the experiences and knowledge that I have been able to gather from such a top tier international organization like Valmet.

What are the biggest takeaways from this trainee program?

“So far, the Project Professional Trainee Program has provided knowledge about several different topics: from the field of project management to Valmet’s day-to-day operations. Typically, in the business studies at university, different topics are examined very theoretically on a macro level. Hence, having been able to apply my theoretical knowledge into practice when thinking about different solutions to further my project, has been one of the most significant learning opportunities for me.

The program and my tasks during this summer have broadened my perspective on internal processes and data handling among others. Being in the beginning of my professional career I value the experiences and knowledge that I have been able to gather from such a top tier international organization like Valmet. Not to forget the opportunity to get acquainted with all the wonderful people at Valmet. I also want to give special mention to the organizers of this trainee program – their contribution and support to this program and to us trainees has guaranteed that the program has been a successful and special experience."

Anything else you would like to mention about your journey as PRO trainee?

“I think that this program has been a great fit for me since I have got an opportunity to dive into unfamiliar business and tasks while also learning about Valmet as an organization and an employer. This traineeship has given me time to consider what it is that I wish from my future career and expand my network. No matter where I will continue my career, I believe this work experience will be appreciated by recruiters and hence, I would warmly recommend this program to other students!”

Read also: Learning curves and life as a PRO trainee