South Karelia is building the future on industrial traditions and competence networks

- South Karelia has traditionally had a strong industry, but structural changes and cuts in production have impacted employment. Proximity to the Russian border is reflected in the labour market, especially in trade and logistics, says Tiia Kaijansinkko from the business services of the South Karelia employment area. 

According to the latest employment report, youth and long-term unemployment in particular have continued to rise. There are fewer jobs available than last year. The number of hidden jobs is increasing, and referral-only positions are opened at a steady pace. 

- Currently, most job adverts in the region require Finnish language skills. At the same time, the role of employers is emphasised – it's important that they recognise the potential of a diverse workforce and lower the threshold for employing people with a foreign background, Kaijansinkko says. 

Many skilled workers are needed in the technology industry, especially in the mechanical and metal sector, where the workforce is ageing. There is also a shortage of welders and machinists. HVAC and electrical installations come up from time to time when discussing the need for experts. In the ICT sector, there is a shortage of experienced professionals, and the green transition highlights competence in renewable energy. 

- Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT) and LAB University of Applied Sciences bring highly educated workers to the region, but retaining them has been seen as a challenge. To this end, we have deployed the International House South Karelia model, which offers support for immigrants in their integration and employment in the region, says Kaijansinkko. 

Business services support recruitment and growth 

The business services of the South Karelia employment area work in close cooperation with the City of Lappeenranta, Imatra's regional development company KEHY, and other business service actors. Company visits are used to identify hidden jobs that can be opened as referral-only positions at Job Market Finland. Employers value a competent and coordinated service where the needs of the company meet the right specialists. 

- Recruitment services support employers in finding employees, planning the recruitment process, and publishing job adverts at Job Market Finland. Referral-only positions are also an option, and the service package includes recruitment events, Kaijansinkko says. 

South Karelia is currently developing a joint internet platform for business services as part of the KasvuAI project managed by Business Mill. The AI-based platform directs entrepreneurs to the right service and provides personal support throughout the service process. The platform is scheduled for completion in the autumn of 2026. 

On 27 November 2025, the South Karelia employment area will organise an information session via Teams at 14:00–15:30, titled "Growth requires workers – also from abroad". At the event, employers can learn more about services that support recruitment and company growth by utilising both international and domestic expertise. The aim is to lower the threshold for hiring international workers by sharing information and practical examples. 

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Registration: Growth requires workers – also from abroad (forms.com, in Finnish)