Vamia’s new ATM-hall sets a high standard for modern vocational education
As industries evolve, education has to follow suit. That is why Vamia Vocational Institute is raising the bar with their new ATM-hall – a €10 million investment designed to train the workforce of the future.
“Vocational education plays a crucial role in Vaasa’s energy cluster. This investment is fully aligned with the goal of supporting local businesses”, states Principal Åsa Stenbacka.
The 5,000 m2 hall hosts motor vehicle, building construction, and infrastructure construction education.
“Our old facilities did not meet modern requirements. Now students can train in environments that mirror real-life conditions”, says Janne Saijonkivi, Head of Department for Technology services.
The hall includes a building workshop, automotive repair bays, and state-of-the-art simulators.
“Our simulators provide realistic training with authentic machinery controls. The system enables collaborative exercises, where students can work together on a simulated worksite using excavators and dump trucks”, describes Seppo Uusitalo, Head of Department for Energy services.
The new facilities have expanded opportunities for business collaboration. Local enterprises have used the hall for training sessions that Vamia’s teachers have also been able to participate in. The hall’s flexible design ensures it can adapt to evolving industry needs.
“The facilities were built with future trends in mind, so we can modify them as technology progresses. All of our programmes are tied together by a common thread: renewable energy and sustainable development”, Stenbacka adds.
Hard work has already paid off, as Vamia recently received the award for the Best Provider of Automotive Training in Finland. The enthusiasm is palpable, with students taking pride in the new facilities.
“You can see it in the way they maintain the spaces – they’re eager to keep everything in top shape. Everyone from students to staff is excited to come here every day”, Saijonkivi sums.
