Finavia’s Jarkko Heikura works as a fire officer at Helsinki Airport’s emergency services. The work is carried out in four shifts, one of which is led by Heikura.
“In practice, I make sure that the airport is always prepared for rescues in accordance with the regulations. My work also includes various projects, administrative tasks and planning and organising rescue exercises,” says Heikura.
When Heikura decided to supplement his rescue training alongside his work, he received full support from Finavia and his supervisor.
“I decided to complete the orientation guidance skills training as part of my apprenticeship at Careeria’s vocational educational institution.”
Heikura already had previous experience of apprenticeship cooperation, having received a specialised vocational degree in technology at the Rastor Institute, graduating from there in 2017.
“I completed the degree in one and a half years while working.”
The fire officer’s work requires good physical fitness, which also influenced Heikura’s decision on further training.
“One of the main reasons was that, if I were injured or ill in such a way that I would not be able to work on the operational side of the emergency services, I would find other job opportunities at Finavia for my career.”
According to Heikura, training through an apprenticeship broadened his view.
“It was good to get to know other employees in the airport community and to learn and update my knowledge about supervisory work, for example. Getting to know other airport employees during the training will make it easier to cooperate in the future because I have a broader understanding of the work of other units and their goals.”
In addition to apprenticeship partnerships, Finavia supports the training of its personnel by offering each employee 10 paid days for study leave.
Further reading
Job rotation enables new challenges at Finavia
Finavia employees who enjoy their work ensure a smooth airport experience
Participative and motivational leadership strengthens cooperation at Finavia
