In the early days of his career, Aleksi found himself at a crossroads. As a Master's student specializing in Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics studies at Aalto University, Aleksi Turunen had numerous opportunities to pursue traditional mechanical engineering roles for either thesis work or internships. However, he realized that although these paths offered potential for expertise in a specific field, they might not align with his true inspiration.

During the search for his next challenge, he stumbled upon GIM Robotics, a unique organization that caught his attention through an acquaintance's recommendation. As he delved into their work, he discovered that GIM Robotics offered a captivating array of projects and a diverse range of tasks, far more intriguing than what larger organisations could provide him. The convergence of software and hardware, which was a passion of his since his childhood, was precisely what the company was seeking at that time. This realisation led him down a career path in robotics, combining the mechanical engineering expertise with a passion for software development as well. Creating robots that could not only make endearing beep-boop sounds but also move and interact with their surroundings was an incredibly fulfilling and exciting endeavor for Aleksi.

So why did Aleksi choose to work at GIM Robotics? While many of his peers set their sights on companies offering more predefined career paths, he found himself captivated by the distinctive nature of GIM Robotics' work. The sheer variety of projects and the opportunity for constant personal and professional growth appealed to him. Over the five years he has worked at GIM Robotics, he has experienced a continuous growth in skills and knowledge, drawing from his hobbies and integrating them into the robotics field. What's more, he has gotten the chance to work alongside colleagues who have become friends to him, which has made the experience all the more enjoyable.

When asked about what would be Aleksi's superpower, he jokes like most Finns that he doesn't have one. But after consideration, it was clear for him that in the early days of his career and GIM Robotics' history, the wide-ranging foundational knowledge across various subjects were proved to be instrumental in generating successful outcomes. By combining the mechanical engineering background with a newfound passion for software engineering, he became a versatile team member, contributing to a diverse range of projects. Aleksi has always had a fearless approach to trying new things, and embraces failure as a learning opportunity. Aleksi's tendency for innovation has been recognized by the company as one of his superpowers and this mindset is a crucial part to be successful in the field of robotics. Several contributions Aleksi has made to the software has made a lasting impact to the company, and continues to be used and further developed in our robotic endeavors.

Among GIM Robotics' values, Aleksi resonates with "Appraise Integrity" the most. He says that it is essential for any company to uphold its promises and maintain a culture of respect. At GIM Robotics we appreciate one another, we foster open communication, and take responsibility for our actions. We recognizing that we are all human and when we make mistakes, we tackle problems collectively, emphasizing solutions rather than blame. This approach extends beyond the workplace, shaping our interactions and relationships outside of work as well with our customers and suppliers.

But what makes GIM Robotics more than just a job for Aleksi?

For Aleksi it is extremely important to have an inclusive culture at GIM Robotics that encourages personal growth, provides space for skill development, and grants employees the autonomy to pursue their chosen career paths. At GIM Robotics we trust each other, fostering a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels valued for their contributions.

In summary, Aleksi's journey to GIM Robotics was a deliberate choice driven by the desire for a dynamic and fulfilling career. By combining the mechanical engineering expertise with a passion for software and hardware convergence, he found his niche working environment in robotics. The variety of projects, the support of a tight-knit community, and a values-driven culture make GIM Robotics more than just a job—it's a place where personal and professional growth flourish, and where he can make a meaningful impact in the fascinating world of robotics.

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