At Recion, we see it as both a responsibility and a privilege to help train tomorrow’s professionals within our industry. Through close collaboration with local schools and universities, we give students the opportunity to gain practical skills while also contributing to our local and regional community. For many, this is the start of a long-term career, like 19-year-old Matias Eskola, who joined Recion through our apprenticeship program and is now part of our team in Ylivieska.
Hi Matias! What made you want to become a welder in the first place?
I liked metalwork class in junior high school, so I applied to metalwork in vocational school and found it interesting.
What has the experience been like so far?
It’s been positive! I have done a wide range of jobs and learned about the materials used in piping, how to read piping drawings, and the basics of pipefitting. Experienced coworkers who are always willing to share their knowledge have played an important role in my learning.
What are your hopes and goals for the future?
My goal is to keep learning and improving every day.
Developing local talent
Veikko Suihkonen is the factory manager in Ylivieska and was M’s supervisor during his apprenticeship period. He explains why it is important for Recion to work closely with local schools and what students can expect from their internship.
Veikko, why is it important for Recion to bring in apprentices?
It allows us to develop skilled workers who match our needs. The program helps shape each student’s skills while also considering their preferences, so they find the most interesting role in our company. This also reduces the training time compared to hiring someone after they have completed their education.
What can an apprentice expect from their time at Recion?
Fair and professional treatment from us, as well as high-quality learning in piping and general metal work.
How would you describe Recion’s significance for Ylivieska?
Our company is a regionally significant employer. Recion has a long history in the industry of Ylivieska and we have provided livelihoods to many generations of metal industry professionals.
How the apprenticeship program works at Recion
Students spend their first year at school learning basic metalworking skills. In spring, they get six weeks of workplace training at our Ylivieska factory, where they gain practical skills and we get to know each other.
Paid apprenticeship
Motivated students can continue with paid summer jobs and join our apprentice program after summer, combining practical work with continued learning.
Learning on the job
Around 80% of students’ time is spent on-the-job, with occasional school days for general subjects. All trade-related skills are taught with a mentor at the workplace.
Individual plan
Each student follows a personalized curriculum with essential metal industry subjects. Evaluation is carried out in collaboration with teachers, ensuring students complete their schooling on schedule while gaining work experience.
