We had the opportunity to interview Tero Latvakangas, who has enjoyed being at Werstas for several years. A flexible employer has enabled him to have a remote office in Turku and at Werstas, even though the company's headquarters is located elsewhere. Although much work is still done remotely, what makes Latvakangas and many others come to the office practically every day?
Who are you and what do you do at Werstas?
I am Tero Latvakangas and I work as a Business Director for the component division at T&G Nordic Oy is a Finnish company with roots dating back to 1967. The current T&G Nordic was formed through acquisitions when two technology companies joined forces in 2017. The headquarters is in Nummela, and we have 50 employees in Finland and Estonia.
Could you tell us a little more about the company?
T&G Nordic Oy is a Finnish company with roots dating back to 1967. The current T&G Nordic was formed through acquisitions when two technology companies joined forces in 2017. The headquarters is in Nummela, and we have 50 employees in Finland and Estonia.
The company manufactures wiring harnesses, automation centers, and other mechanical sub-assemblies as contract manufacturing, as well as imports electronic and mechanical components. Our customers include a wide range of Finnish industrial companies, for example in the automotive, marine, and wastewater industries, as well as the energy, defense, and security sectors.
What is a typical workday like for you?
I do sales and new customer acquisition, and I also work on the purchasing side. In addition to office work, about a couple of days a month I am visiting clients or attending trade fairs or other industry events.
Remote, on-site, or hybrid work?
I have been working at T&G Nordic since 2011, and I have worked in Turku from the very beginning. A flexible employer has enabled a remote office at Werstas, which is a great thing! I have been at Werstas since 2016 in this same office. When the expansion of the Paratiisi section was completed, I was able to move directly into the new premises.
As a rule, I am on-site at the office; the Werstas facilities are modern and comfortable. I like having a place to come to work and then leave to go home at the end of the day. Good ergonomics is important, and two monitors make my work easier.
As a rule, I am on-site at the office. Werstas' facilities are modern and comfortable.
Packed lunch or lunch at a restaurant during workdays?
Most of the time I have lunch at Mauno in ElectroCity, because it's easy and the place is nearby.
Have you gotten to know other people at Werstas?
I have gotten to know other people here a bit over the years. Although some of them have already moved on, we still keep in touch. In the common areas and at events, it is easy to meet new people; I myself have also participated, for example, in the joint Christmas parties for the Werstas community and other smaller events.
Would you recommend Werstas to others?
Absolutely! It is easy to become a customer here, and the services included in the package make everyday life conveniently easier. Coffee is also always available, which is an important thing for many. In summary, I would say the benefits of Werstas are its location, services, and networking.
How do you take care of your well-being?
I spend time with my family, the hobbies of my three daughters keep me busy! My favorite hobby lately has been chess, and I also go disc golfing and cross-country skiing in the winter. I cycle to work every day, so I also get some beneficial exercise.
What are you looking forward to this coming summer?
In the summer, we are going to Sweden for a week with the family; there are sure to be many adventures in store!
Thank you Tero, have a great May Day and enjoy the wait for summer!