The Year 2024 Has Been Busy and Successful

Who?

Marja Vartiainen

• Chairperson of Skills Finland since 2022, previously served two years on the board.
• Finland’s official delegate for WorldSkills since 2023.
• Over 30 years of experience in education, currently working as Head of Competence Services at Vantaa Vocational College Varia.
• In her free time, she enjoys reading, jogging, and attending music events.

The year began with the Taitaja semifinals, which attracted a record number of participants. The May finals event in Kuopio received praise for its excellent organization. Competitors, partners, and visitors also commended the city’s positive atmosphere and the helpfulness of various service providers. The title of Taitaja of the Year was awarded to Max Miettunen in property management. Max has been featured in numerous media outlets and has had the opportunity to participate in various events and occasions. He exemplifies the professional excellence and dedication needed in a field that is continuously in demand for new talent.

In September, the international spotlight was on the WorldSkills competition in Lyon. A team of 22 competitors participated in 20 skills categories. Representing Finland with this incredible team was an honor. The team brought home one silver medal and 11 Medallions for Excellence, awarded for performances above the average standard. Once again, I warmly congratulate the medalists and all other competitors who took part in the event! The value of participating will undoubtedly grow for each competitor in the years to come, regardless of their placement.

In Lyon, we also introduced the Abilympics 2027 competition, which will be held in Finland alongside the Taitaja event at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. The presentation received much positive feedback and promising collaboration opportunities. Planning in Finland is already well underway, and by 2025, the event organization will seamlessly integrate with the Taitaja event’s framework.

Skills competitions are important for many reasons. They provide the best talents in their fields the chance to test their skills. The events serve as meeting points for vocational education providers and stakeholders. Competition activities significantly enhance the quality of vocational education and increase its appeal.

As Chairperson, I am proud of the dedicated individuals across the country working to advance this shared mission. I hope that the upcoming budget cuts will not reduce investments in competition activities. Instead, we should recognize the importance of this work as an investment in the future and strive together to ensure its continued success.

A big thank you to the entire network for excellent collaboration: educational institutions, industry representatives, other partners, and the Skills Finland office! I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and an outstanding year of excellence in 2025!

Skills Finland Board Planning Meeting at Allas Sea Pool, June 17, 2024.