Anssi’s summer at Konecranes didn’t begin like most internships. While many students start a summer job between semesters, Anssi was just steps away from finishing his degree, with only a few chapters left of his master’s thesis in business from the University of Vaasa. “I’m basically done, just wrapping up the thesis. So this summer job came at the perfect time, it gave me a preview of what working life could look like right after graduation.”
Though Anssi had brushed against procurement in earlier roles, this was the first time he got to be fully involved. “My previous jobs were somewhat related to procurement, but I didn’t get to do the actual purchasing. This time, I’m in it for real, placing orders, learning the systems, and seeing how it all works. It’s the kind of experience you can’t get from lectures.”
From hybrid meetings to factory floors
Living in Helsinki, Anssi splits his time between the office and remote work. Rather than seeing distance as a challenge, he’s made it work - and work well. “I come into the office about twice a week and work from home the rest of the time. At first, I was here more often, but this rhythm has settled in nicely. The flexibility has been a big plus.”
To help bridge the virtual gap, the team coordinates shared office days, a small gesture that’s made a big difference. “Those days have been great for team bonding. Everyone’s been really easy to approach, and I’ve felt welcome from the start.”
Discovering the bigger picture
One of the most memorable moments in Anssi’s summer was a factory tour, and it changed how he sees his work. “I got to see all the parts that make up a crane. It sounds simple, but it really opened my eyes. Suddenly, buying raw materials wasn’t just an abstract task, I could see exactly how it fits into the bigger picture.”
That shift in perspective has been one of the most valuable parts of the experience. “The work itself is interesting and varied, but what’s really struck me is how complex and coordinated everything is. Konecranes isn’t just a company with one focus, it’s a network of teams making something huge, together.”
Building something real
So far, the role has been a blend of onboarding and hands-on tasks, and Anssi’s already placing real orders. “I’ve been buying raw materials like steel for crane production. One of my latest purchases came from Germany. That’s pretty cool to say out loud as a student, that you’re actually contributing to a global supply chain.”
While he’s not locking in a life plan just yet, the experience has expanded his thinking. “I haven’t had one huge aha moment, but I’ve learned a lot about what the field really involves. I’m open to staying here longer, and procurement is something I’d definitely like to explore more.”
A song, a memory, and a start
There’s one moment that stands out for Anssi, and it’s not from a meeting or a factory floor. It’s from his first commute. “On the day I drove to the office for the first time, the song ‘Kyllikki’ by Leevi and the Leavings came on. Now, every time I hear it, I think of this summer. It’s funny how something small like that can stick with you.”
And just like that song, the experience has left a mark. From thesis edits to purchase orders, office days to team chats, Anssi’s summer has been a quiet but steady shift into professional life, and a chance to see what he’s capable of.
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