Editorial: When the Weakening Continues, the Strength Comes from the Community
They say “new year, new tricks,” but Finland’s government seems determined to stick with the same old ones, and there is no end in sight to the weakening of working life. The removal of restrictions on fixed-term employment is moving forward, even though its positive impact on employment has been assessed as minimal. Instead, the change will mainly lead to replacing permanent positions with fixed-term contracts, as employers will no longer need to justify their use. Layoff notice periods are also being shortened. These and many other cutbacks have created uncertainty even for those who still have a job. It is no wonder that people are saving for hard times instead of spending, when the weakening of working conditions appears endless. Growing uncertainty about one’s future discourages consumption—even among those who could afford it.
At Tietoala, however, a fresh breeze is blowing. Our logo and brand look are being updated to reflect the present day, though the changes will be moderate. The renewed look will become visible during this winter and next spring.
Tietoala’s board held its constitutive meeting last week and elected, among others, the vice chair, other officers, and the committees. A major change from previous years is that responsibilities for communications, events, and finance are now centralized under Executive Director Milla Pennanen, whereas these tasks were previously handled alongside members’ regular day jobs. The committees and their members will continue to play a significant role in ensuring that Tietoala can actively advocate for its members and organize events where members enjoy participating.
I wish all our members and your loved ones a very happy new year—may it be better than the last.
Jyrki Kopperi, Chair, Tietoala ry
New Personnel Representative?
Report it to the membership register
Have you recently started as a staff representative? Remember to report it so you can receive information, training invitations and event updates related to your new role. The notification must be submitted to both the Finnish Engineers’ Association (Insinööriliitto) and YTN. Instructions can be found via the link below.
Rewards for recommending the membership!
A chance to win a spa gift card
By recommending Tietoala membership, you will receive a recruitment bonus from both Tietoala and the Finnish Engineers’ Association. In addition, a special campaign is now underway: all members who recommend more than two new members between 1 January and 28 February will be entered into a draw for a €200 spa.fi gift card.
Invitation to a Webinar: Are We Happy in the IT Sector?
Join us on 3 February from 10:00 onwards!
Last spring, YTN Tietoala and Tietoala ry conducted a job satisfaction survey for their members. The survey explored various aspects of work and respondents’ attitudes toward their jobs. Many thanks to all who participated!
A similar survey was also carried out in Japan, with the aim of comparing the experiences of Finnish and Japanese respondents. In Finland, the research was conducted by Tampere University, and in Japan by Doshisha University in Kyoto.
You are warmly welcome to hear the results in a Teams webinar on 3 February from 10:00 to 12:00. No separate registration is needed—simply join the meeting. The presentation will be in English, and a recording will be made available.
Vene 26 Båt -Fair in February
Tietoala offers discounted tickets for members and their guests to the highlight of the year for boating and fishing enthusiasts: the Helsinki Boat Show! Tietoala has reserved tables at the Lilla Strindberg café in Messukeskus on Saturday 7 February from 12:00 to 14:00, where coffee/tea and something sweet will be served. Buy your tickets by 2 February.
Stand-Up in Tampere
Finland’s comedy capital, Tampere, offers members a fun night at the Tammela Stadium Club on 6 March. Performers include Arimo Mustonen, Miksu Pellikka and Erika Pekkarinen. Register by 27 February.
Trip to Berlin for members
Berlin is a city where history breathes and culture pulses. In April, parks turn green and cafés open their terraces—making it a perfect destination for a break from everyday life! Join the traditional spring trip with other Tietoala members and their guests. Travel dates: 16–19 April.
Naisten Kymppi Is Calling Again!
Join Tietoala’s team for the Naisten Kymppi event on 23 May. The participation fee is €33 and includes a participant wristband, info magazine, T-shirt and a refreshing drink at Bierhaus München. Register by 21 February 2026.