Johanna Korolainen is a multi-skilled professional who has worked at Fibox Tested Systems’ factory in Kiuruvesi for nearly five years. She is a valued and well-liked colleague who has demonstrated a positive attitude, commitment, and a willingness to learn new things and take on new responsibilities whenever needed.
A new beginning
Johanna’s path to Fibox was not a traditional one, but rather the result of a major life change. Before joining Fibox, she spent around eight years working as a farm owner and also worked part-time as a personal assistant.
While considering a career change, Fibox stood out as an interesting opportunity.
“I was changing careers and Fibox interested me because I had previously worked in a factory and enjoyed that kind of work. Fibox caught my attention because it had the biggest turnover in Kiuruvesi.”
A turning point came through a work placement that quickly led to employment.
“I came for a two-week work placement and then there was a two-week break, until Factory Manager Jouni Vartiainen sent me an email asking if I would like to come to work.”
The career change has felt like the right decision:
“I enjoy working with people more than with animals because I’m quite talkative.”
For Johanna, the work community and the practical nature of the work are important sources of motivation.
Career path at Fibox
After her internship, Johanna started in production assembly work, assembling starters. Within approximately four months, she moved on to substitute work in the warehouse.
Today, she works flexibly in both production and warehouse tasks depending on the company’s needs and is also moving into purchasing substitute duties.
The variety of tasks is important to her, especially the active and mobile nature of warehouse work. In the warehouse, a typical day involves receiving deliveries and picking project materials, while production work focuses on assembly and wiring.
Johanna highlights the importance of the work community and describes the atmosphere as open and approachable.
“Our work team is fantastic and help is always available when needed. In Kiuruvesi, we have a good group where everyone can be themselves and you can ask anyone for help.”
Johanna experiences a sense of accomplishment when she can see the results of her own work and complete tasks carefully and thoroughly, which reflects her personality.
Learning and professional growth
Johanna feels she has learned a great deal at Fibox, from assembly work and tools to warehouse operations and software systems. Her product knowledge has also grown significantly.
“Earlier, I didn’t know much even about screws, and now I understand how many different types there are and what they are used for.”
New responsibilities have been the biggest enabler of her professional growth. She especially values the opportunity to expand her skills through practical hands-on learning.
“All new work tasks have been the most useful for my career growth. By doing your work well and with a good attitude, it is possible to progress and continuously gain new responsibilities. You just need the courage to take on new things. Anyone can learn.”
Taking care of wellbeing
Wellbeing is important to Johanna, and she has found a balance that helps her maintain energy even during busier periods of life.
“Music, every day physical activity and enough sleep are things I do not easily compromise on. Talking is also important for mental well-being, and family and friends are the best support system.”
One positive aspect of her current work is that it stays at the workplace and does not follow her home after the workday ends. Regular daytime working hours also support a balanced family life, leaving more time for family and hobbies.
Johanna also values the sports and wellbeing benefits offered by the employer, which have encouraged her to visit the swimming hall and gym more often.
Finding balance through music
Music is an important part of Johanna’s life and identity. Together with her partner Elmeri Kinnunen, she formed a duo called Josce in 2024. Their music combines blues, rock, schlager, and metal influences, and they perform both original songs and well-known classics live. They have also released two music videos.
“Music is one of the most important things in my life. Through it, I can express my life experiences, both the good moments and the heavier things I have faced in life.”
For Johanna, music is not only a hobby but also a side profession.
“I would like to make and perform more music.”
At the same time, she values the balance between work and personal life so much that, at least in her current stage of life, she cannot imagine fully committing to the lifestyle of a touring artist.
“Work and family take time, but music is an important mental resource for me.”
Listen to two beautiful songs by Josce from the music videos below:
