Valtteri Suoniemi shines in construction dreams at Tredu vocational school in Tampere

Valtteri Suoniemi, an eighth grader from Takahuhdin school, thrives in his passion for construction, a dream he’s nurtured since he was just three or four years old. He reminisces about playing with a variety of construction toys while adults worked on building extensions for their home. Recently, he had the opportunity to use real tools at Tredu vocational school in Tampere, where construction trades were showcased to upper-grade students.

Despite the current bleak outlook for the construction sector, Tredu and affiliated organizations know that skilled professionals will be essential in the future. Unemployment in this industry has spiked significantly, with the number of jobless individuals doubling compared to previous years. Last year’s construction activity dropped by 16%, and the decline in housing construction continues for the second consecutive year.

The Construction Workers’ Union reports that 13% of its members were dependent on unemployment benefits last month, a stark increase compared to better years. Union officials warn that many workers may leave the field, exacerbated by cuts to unemployment benefits which hit builders particularly hard during typical winter layoffs.

As students like 14-year-old Viljami Kivelä express interest in traditional construction methods, and Timi Hoffrén, a 15-year-old, contemplates his career options, it raises questions about the industry’s reputation. They both acknowledge the excitement of working in construction, but the challenging employment conditions have stirred thoughts about alternatives.

Even with uncertainty looming, experts predict a need for 600,000 new residences in urban areas by 2040. Therefore, while the current scenario may appear discouraging, opportunities will likely continue to exist within the industry.