Helsinki Vocational College's initial vocational qualifications is a great springboard for further studies. Patrik Tuominen, who graduated as a builder, continued his studies at the University of Applied Sciences, where he can make use of his previous training in the field.
Patrik Tuominen, 19, graduated in spring 2025 as a builder with a Vocational Qualification in Construction. His studies in the field continued in the autumn of the same year at the Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, where Patrik started his construction engineering studies.
His interest in the construction industry was born during a summer job on a building site. Patrik liked the fact that you could see the result of your own handiwork. During his studies, he was able to try out different things in the construction industry, and he found the studies flexible.
“After comprehensive school, I went to general upper secondary school, but my interest in the construction industry was so great that I transferred to Helsinki Vocational College. It was the right decision, because practical studies suit me," says Patrik.
The studies included two training agreement or KOS periods. Practical construction skills are strengthened by working, and Patrik benefited from his summer work experience.
“I already had contacts with construction companies, so I could easily find KOS positions for myself.”
Patrik completed his qualification at Helsinki Vocational College in a couple of years. He has fond memories of his timthere. He also praises the Myllypuro campus, which was completed a few years ago and has great facilities for studying construction.
His vocational school studies have also been useful at the University of Applied Sciences, even though higher education studies are more theoretical and demanding.
“Knowing the field and the practical side of things helps when in the construction engineer studies. I have also become familiar with construction jobs through my previous studies," Patrik says.
Patrik's dream for the future is to work in project management in a construction site environment. After graduating from Metropolia, he hopes to work in jobs where he can see different types of construction sites.
“In the future, I could consider starting a business. Let's see which way the wind blows," says the young construction professional.
Construction graduates usually work in new construction or renovation projects. Their employers can include construction companies, contractors or the building industry at large. Skilled professionals can also set up their own business.
The construction sector has been affected by the economy and many other global developments. With fewer jobs available in the sector, finding KOS positions for students has been challenging. However, things are looking a little brighter already.
“At the moment, the situation for students in the sector is relatively good. If the labour market opens up again in a couple of years, new graduates will have jobs available to them,” says Mauri Pollari, a construction teacher at Helsinki Vocational College.
Study places are readily available in the construction sector. You can complete an initial qualification of builder, mason or infrastructure builder.
Many people end up studying construction if they do not exactly know what their dream job is. Since the compulsory school age in Finland was raised, the number of students coming directly from comprehensive school has increased. Adult students make up around one third of all students, and some students are changing careers.
“The field is suitable for motivated learners who like hands-on work and have good perceptive skills. You don't necessarily need to excel academically, but it helps to be in good physical shape," Mauri says.
Every construction student must complete three compulsory and 4–5 optional study modules but learning on the job plays an important role.
“I teach interior construction, framing, scaffolding, laying foundations outdoors, tiling and partitioning. At school we practise the basics, but in the end, you learn the trade by working on a construction site," says Mauri.
Before becoming a teacher, Mauri Pollari worked in the construction industry for over 30 years. For him, the best thing about working in construction is the variety – the landscapes, people and sites change.
The studies also emphasise versatility and flexibility: the student's previous knowledge and performance play a major role.
“We have a good atmosphere and great facilities for learning at the construction department. The Myllypuro campus is easily accessible, and the school has many cooperation partners. The students get to do practical work in apartment buildings and renovation projects," says Mauri.
Patrik, a former student at Helsinki Vocational College, had this to say to young people considering training in construction:
“If the field interests you even a little, it's worth giving it a try. You can also apply for further studies after graduation. And you can always change direction if necessary.”
