In September, a total of 51 Finn-Power representatives from 20 countries around the world travelled to Härmä, Finland for the highly anticipated Lillbacka Training Academy 2024. In the span of three days, representatives were immersed in knowledge about Finn-Power products, future development directions and latest industry updates.
The event was organized in the Palace Areena at the heart of Lillbacka’s amusement park PowerPark. The arena transformed into a dynamic hub of knowledge, featuring nine distinct training stages set up throughout the hall. Each stage, guided by Lillbacka staff and senior representatives, served as a dedicated station, offering hands-on training around specialized themes. This year’s themes included connectivity, ICC™ controls, new products, future developments, additive manufacturing and much more.
The stages are designed to be interactive: stage guides encourage questions, development ideas and conversations, with each stage featuring Finn-Power machines for live demonstrations and practical training. Stage guides are happy to report seeing strong interest towards products, features and applications, as well as engaging in active conversations with the participants and receiving their valuable insights and ideas regarding Finn-Power products. Participants were also offered factory tours for even a deeper insight into Lillbacka’s operations.
Exchange of Knowledge as Core Purpose
Valuable insights were also exchanged during the kick-off session on the first day. Participants received an in-depth review of Lillbacka’s business and the industry’s future, while also providing information and ideas about the Finn-Power business in their regions. The company management, along with founder Jorma Lillbacka himself, were present and shared their views on the company values and future.
“The core purpose of the Academy is the exchange of knowledge. With developments like sustainability, automation, integration and AI defining the industry’s future, it is more essential than ever to unite, exchange knowledge on products and markets, and collaborate to ensure continued competitiveness. By doing this, we will achieve our common goal of providing products that genuinely serve global customer needs today and in the future. The more we know, the more we win”, says Chief Technology Officer Timo Taipalus.
Fostering Personal Connections
During Training Academies, Lillbacka hopes the representatives also enjoy themselves outside of the training sessions. This year, the social program included activities such as go-karting and, of course, relaxing in the sauna. Informal activities foster stronger personal connections and provide more valuable opportunities for networking and discussions. For many representatives, it is their first or one of their first visits to Finland.
“We sincerely appreciate each participant for their effort and for taking the time to travel to Finland to join our 4th Lillbacka Training Academy. We consider the event a great success and believe that we are once again continuing our journey as a more united and knowledgeable team. We extend our sincerest gratitude for everyone involved in organizing the event and everyone attending it. We look forward to seeing you again at the next Lillbacka Training Academy in 2026”, Sales & Marketing Director Vesa Hietalahti concludes.