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Aalto University and ABB will intensify their collaboration in research, teaching and recruitment. ABB's collaboration with Aalto University and its predecessor Helsinki University of Technology goes back 126 years. Aalto University, which was founded five years ago, combines science, art, technology and finance.

'Our aim is to help ABB in the tightening markets by bringing up the possibilities provided by the interdisciplinary and innovative approach of Aalto University more strongly than before, states Dean of the Aalto University School of Electrical Engineering Jyri Hämälainen.

How mutual collaboration and interaction could be strengthened was discussed in a joint workshop in October. The common understanding was clear: to build on existing strengths.

Competitive advantage from design

It was noted that development of design and service design was one of the visions for the future and a competitive advantage. The operation of Aalto Design Factory has already expanded across the world and some of its offices are located near ABB's factories. Therefore it is worthwhile to take advantage of the existing network in future to be able gather research data for product and service design directly from local operators.

'The outcome of the day was excellent and our group that discussed development of service design was very inventive. We will carry on from here and develop cooperation,' promised Ilona Törmikoski, who is responsible for Alumni and Corporate Relations at the Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture.

Companies to be involved in development of degree programmes

ABB employs nearly 1 000 summer trainees every year, of which around 450 in Helsinki. In addition, ABB and Aalto University have a lot of cooperation in the form of master's theses. In conversations about educational cooperation it was discussed how valuable information could be gathered from thesis supervisors at ABB for the development needs in study programmes.

'Our aim is to educate masters of science in engineering to meet the needs of working life,' reminds Vice Dean of the Aalto University School of Electrical Engineering Keijo Nikoskinen and suggests that a seminar on feedback and development for degree programmes be planned in future.