Eriikka Nenonen – a future maker in the nuclear power industry
Master’s thesis student Eriikka Nenonen brings a fresh perspective, strong values, and genuine interest in nuclear safety to the Platomi team. Her career path has taken her from environmental engineering studies to modeling, and now her thesis work with the Apros software is taking her expertise to the next level. Eriikka is an example of how courage to experiment and openness to new ideas can lead to meaningful directions—even at the very start of a career.
From Student to Expert – A Path into the Energy Sector
Eriikka Nenonen, who joined Platom in the autumn, is soon to graduate as a Master of Science in Energy Technology. Her background combines studies in environmental, energy, and safety engineering. Her career is still in its early stages, but the direction is clear: Eriikka wants to do meaningful work that brings together responsibility and technical expertise.
I originally wanted to study environmental engineering because I wanted to do work that benefits both people and the environment—work that feels important, Eriikka explains.
Although there wasn’t a clear career plan at first, her interests began to take shape during her studies. A course on safety engineering, which covered risk analysis and its various methods, turned out to be a turning point.
I mentioned the course in my summer job application, and it led to my first job in the nuclear industry. At the time, I applied for several different positions, and this one seemed the most interesting. I didn’t think I’d get it, knowing there were many applicants—but that’s how it happened.
My first summer job at Olkiluoto also influenced my decision to switch my major from environmental engineering to energy technology, even though I had studied both before. In that sense, my studies became more focused, Eriikka explains.
Three summers of work experience—first at Olkiluoto and later at Fortum—deepened her interest, especially in nuclear safety.
I had been interested in nuclear power for a long time, but it was only in working life that I saw how seriously safety is actually taken. That made an impression and strengthened my feeling that I was in the right field.
The Master’s Thesis Takes Expertise to the Next Level
Eriikka’s master’s thesis at Platom’s Espoo office focuses on modeling the behavior of uranium hexafluoride using the Apros software. The topic is clearly different from her previous tasks, but that’s exactly what makes the work so interesting.
My current work combines well what I’ve learned in my studies and previous jobs. I became familiar with modeling through my studies, and now I get to apply that knowledge in practice.
Platom has made a positive impression from the very beginning. As a new employee, Eriikka has felt welcome and valued.
Even though this is a fixed-term position, I was given responsibility right away and felt like an equal part of the team. That has been important, Eriikka says.
Soon to graduate as a Master of Science in Engineering, Eriikka values meaningful work that benefits both people and the environment.
Values Guide the Work – Now and in the Future
Eriikka’s thinking and approach to work are guided by strong values.
Responsibility is important to me—not only from an environmental perspective, but also in doing your work carefully and taking ownership of what you do.
In the future, Eriikka hopes to grow into an expert who can make an impact through knowledge and experience. She believes that at the start of a career, the most important things are openness and curiosity.
I wish I had known at the beginning of my studies that you don’t need to have a clear direction right away. It’s perfectly okay to try things and move toward what interests you. The pressure to make big decisions at a very young age can blur what you truly want, Eriikka reflects.
Free Time Creates Space to Think and Recharge
Balance between work and leisure comes from smooth everyday routines and self-care. For Eriikka, exercise, outdoor activities, and creative hobbies—especially handicrafts and music—are essential.
Music plays a big role. I enjoy listening to metal, but I like a wide variety of genres. For example, I just went to listen to a symphony orchestra playing Nigthwish’s latest album.
To counterbalance work, Eriikka seeks peace in nature and time with friends, along with good food or a book.
Everyday balance helps you cope at work too. Having other things in life besides work brings energy and clarity to professional goals, Eriikka sums up.