Kamila Trembowska never planned to become an engineer. In fact, she was quite sure of it. “In high school, I used to say I’d never be an engineer,” she laughs. “My whole family are engineers with master’s degrees in construction, and I absolutely wanted to do something different.”
But when she began applying to university programs in the Nordic countries, her first offer came from a construction engineering program. She gave it a chance, and everything clicked.“After the first year, I realized I actually love it. It combines the subjects I enjoy most: math and physics. It just makes sense.”
Kamila recently completed her bachelor’s in structural engineering and is preparing to start her master’s studies in geoengineering at Aalto University. This summer, though, she’s doing something entirely new, working as a structural trainee at Konecranes.
From solving problems to solving structures
The role caught her eye on LinkedIn, especially because it involved strength calculations, her favourite subject in university. “I used to stay up late solving problems just for fun. When I saw this role, I thought, this is exactly what I want to do.”
Although she also applied elsewhere, Konecranes was the only company to invite her to an interview. “I was honestly surprised and grateful. And now here I am.”
Her first few weeks involved onboarding, software tutorials, and orientation to the company’s approach. Since then, she’s moved on to AutoCAD drawings and structural calculations for cranes. “It’s all very new. My studies didn’t cover cranes or mechanical components, so I’m learning from scratch. But I like the challenge.”
Learning on the job - and loving it
Kamila’s honesty about the learning curve is part of what makes her story so refreshing. “When I first started working with crane parts, I didn’t know what many of the names meant. I spent a lot of time Googling terms and comparing them to the drawings. It was hard, but I knew I’d get used to it.” She’s been learning software too, including NX and FINNSAP for finite element analysis and strength analysis.
Even though she hasn’t yet seen the physical results of her work, the experience itself has already been deeply validating. “Just being here, working in Finland at Konecranes, makes me feel like my skills are valuable. That’s a great feeling.”
A supportive team
One of the biggest highlights for Kamila has been the atmosphere in her team. “I’m really impressed by how much my colleagues know. At the beginning, it was hard to follow their technical discussions sometimes; they’re so experienced. But they always take the time to help me.” It’s not just about support with work, it’s also about connection. “They’ve invited me for coffee, lunch… I feel cared for, like I’m part of a Konecranes family.”
This warm, welcoming environment has had a lasting impact.
“I thought I’d relax this summer if I didn’t find a job. Now I work every day, and I’m excited.”
For future engineers with doubts
Kamila encourages other students, especially those unsure about heavy industry, to give it a try. “Apply for everything! I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I do. Working in heavy industry gives you the chance to work on complex, real-world designs. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
So, if Kamila’s summer were a LEGO build? She knows exactly what it would be. “I’d build something like the London Eye but with crane parts. Something that symbolizes movement, rotation, and the mechanical side of what I’ve learned. I’d call it Crane’s Eye.”
