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. Even though remote work is still common, 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 components 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. Our headquarters is in Nummela, and we employ 50 people in Finland and Estonia.
Can you tell us a bit 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. Our headquarters is in Nummela, and we employ 50 people in Finland and Estonia.
The company manufactures wire harnesses, automation centers, and other mechanical sub-assemblies as contract manufacturing, as well as imports electronic and mechanical components. Our customers include Finnish industrial companies across the board, for example in the automotive, marine, and wastewater industries, as well as the energy, defense, and security sectors.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I do sales work and customer acquisition, and I also work in procurement. In addition to office work, about a couple of days a month I am visiting customers or attending trade fairs or other industry events.
Remote, in-office, or hybrid work?
I have been working at T&G Nordic since 2011, and from the beginning, I have been working in Turku. A flexible employer has enabled a remote office at Werstas, which is great! I have been at Werstas since 2016 in this same office. When the expansion of the Paratiisi wing was completed, I moved straight into the new premises.
As a rule, I am on-site at the office; the premises at Werstas are modern and comfortable. I like having a place to come to for work and to leave for home at the end of the day. Good ergonomics are important, and two screens make my work easier.
As a rule, I am on-site at the office. Werstas' facilities are modern and comfortable.
Do you bring your own lunch or eat at a restaurant on workdays?
Most often, I have lunch at Mauno in ElectroCity because it's easy and the place is nearby.
Have you gotten to know other Werstas residents?
I have gotten to know some other people here over the years. Even though some of them have already left for elsewhere, we still keep in touch. It is easy to meet new people in the common areas and events; I have also participated, for example, in the Werstas Christmas parties 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 the location, services, and networking.
How do you take care of your well-being?
I spend time with my family; my three daughters' hobbies keep me busy! My favorite hobby lately has been chess, and I also go frisbee golfing, and skiing in the winter. I cycle to work every day, so I get a good amount of incidental exercise.
What are you looking forward to this summer?
In the summer, we are going to Sweden with the family for a week; there are sure to be many adventures there!
Thank you Tero, have a great May Day and enjoy the wait for summer!