Ari Annala: Engineering vehicles with a purpose

Ari Annala works in mechanical engineering in Etteplan’s newly established Defence Competence Centre, where he designs vehicle structures for Patria. He joined Etteplan in 2023, and his long experience with Patria has led him to his current role as Chief Engineer, Versions.

Ari is responsible for structural assemblies and subassemblies of armored vehicles, as well as the related documentation. He values the variety and challenges of his work at Etteplan, as well as the purpose behind it.

“Understanding what the vehicles are used for and why they’re needed right now is important to me. And, of course, it’s rewarding to succeed in my own work. Those are the things that make my job meaningful,” he says.

Ari has used AI only a little so far, because much of the work involves information that must be handled securely. He hopes to use AI more, for example to optimize the material, weight, and durability of the parts he models, which is an essential part of his current work. Ari also sees that AI could help with creating and checking drawings of routine parts and assemblies.

“AI will definitely change this field too, and probably make many things easier,” he says.

Ari remembers the years when he drove 90 kilometers each way to work, long before remote work was an option. Today, the opportunity to work from home makes life easier and is one of the reasons he enjoys staying at Etteplan.

He also appreciates Etteplan’s employee benefits, especially the culture and sports benefit, which he uses actively, for example for movies, concerts and bowling. The company’s flexibility is equally important to him, making it easier to balance work with personal commitments and holidays.

Most of his free time goes to cycling. He rides at least twenty kilometers almost every day. The rides do more than clear his head.

“Sometimes a problem I’ve been chewing on at work can suddenly sort itself out on the bike”, he admits.

Ari has a clear message for anyone thinking about joining Etteplan. He points to the work itself and to the people in the Defence Competence Centre.

“Etteplan offers variety and the right level of challenge. We also have a great work community where you can always get help from your colleagues when needed.”