Sakari Pahkala

Sakari Pahkala has extensive work experience in various roles and industries. Sakari started their career at Outokumpu, where they held several positions including Process Automation Engineer, Automation Engineer, Diploma Worker, and Shift Supervisor. Pahkala also worked as a Development Engineer at Ruukki. Later, they became the Quality Manager at Keycast Oy and then the Safety and Production Planning Manager at Ruukki. Sakari then joined Ferral Components Oy, where they worked as Sales Manager, Site Manager, and eventually as Sales Director. Pahkala went on to become the Production Manager at Miilucast Oy and then served as the Managing Director at Sievi-Tools Oy. Currently, they work at SSAB as the Process Automation Development Manager, responsible for driving digital transformation and automation initiatives. Recently, Pahkala has taken on the role of Head of Strategic Automation and Digitalization Development, focusing on improving efficiency and sustainability through data-driven decision making and implementation of advanced technologies like AI/ML and hybrid data platforms.

Sakari Pahkala completed their education in Process Engineering at the University of Oulu from 1998 to 2004, earning a M.Sc degree. In addition to their academic qualifications, they obtained the VIA Leadership in Action 50 certification from VIA Group in March 2012.