The construction and real estate sector employs nearly 550,000 people in Finland, but only about a third of them work in construction itself, the part of the sector most sensitive to economic cycles. The sector has been in a prolonged downturn, but recent investments in data centres and industry show that it needs labour now and in the future.
Major societal changes are helping to turn things around. For example, the green transition, energy efficiency requirements, renovation construction, and new technologies offer new growth opportunities for both domestic and international construction companies.
We need new talent, innovation, international competitiveness, and expertise-based exports if the Finnish construction industry is to remain a significant employer and a cornerstone of the national economy.
Growth in construction requires at least the following four factors:
The Curious People newsletter shares our solutions for helping build resilient communities, industry, and businesses while promoting the energy transition and the regenerative use of natural resources.
1. New talent
Universities train professionals who can meet the current needs of the working world and renew companies. Studies draw on the latest research and include regular dialogue with the business world.
Informal, easy-to-access encounters between students and companies prepare students for the professional world and give companies a way to find the talent of the future. The need for connection grows as the share of international workers in Finland increases.
2. Research-based knowledge
Research questions align with the needs of the working world. University researchers and industry experts define the problems to be solved together. In this way, organisations get information that is relevant to them.
The need for connection grows as the share of international workers in Finland increases.
3. Testing innovations
Companies work with universities when developing new solutions for the market. At the commercialisation stage, it is important that an innovation's performance and usability are verified reliably. Research shows that an idea is feasible (proof of concept), works in practice (real-life pilot), and works in the right setting (first proven installation). A university's impartial evaluation is a convincing reference in both domestic and international markets.
4. International networking
A product or solution often has to be adapted to suit international markets. This might mean training local experts, writing new guidelines, or even influencing the standards of the target country.
University collaboration programmes, such as EU research and innovation projects, give companies problem-solving support and networking opportunities. Researchers can also take part in development work directly.
Universities and construction companies can therefore support each other in many ways. The construction industry has relied largely on the domestic market, and success will require a more international approach and more strategic partnerships between parties.
