Patryk Sierpowski, a master student from the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Helsinki, is very happy with their work experience at ABB.
“One could think that ABB is just for engineering students but there are also many possibilities for other emerging experts,” says Patryk who has concentrated on social research methodology. “It has been such a great experience to see how I’ve been able to turn my knowledge in social data sciences into business benefit for a global technology company.“
Patryk’s expertise in analytics helps to provide statistics for Drives Communication’s reports to see how their content is received in digital channels globally. Additionally, Patryk's methodological competences have been used in a massive global, cross business customer journey qualitative research.
It has not only been data, numbers and analytics though. Patryk has planned and managed Yammer activities and communications in other social media channels as well as supported the team in producing articles. “What I like is the possibility to handle a variety of communication responsibilities besides the analytics,” Patryk says.
“It’s good to challenge yourself in different directions. With a background in more qualitative sociology, I have learnt entirely new skills in my master studies in social data science which is very rewarding. I hope that this will encourage others as well – and it actually matches very well with ABB’s continuous learning initiatives.“
Patryk’s knowledge in research methods has been very valuable for the Drives Communications team. “It has been such a great experience to see how I’ve been able to turn my knowledge in social data sciences into business benefit for a global technology company,“ Patryk says. 
Patryk and Anna work in Pitäjänmäki, Helsinki where one of the world’s largest drives factories is located. ”The business with the focus on energy efficiency is so impressive to work with,” Patryk says.
To new levels
“Patryk’s knowledge in research methods has been very valuable for us. They have brought great expertise and insights to the team,” says Anna Kurikka who has been Patryk’s hosting manager in Drives Communications since May 2022.
“The most exciting moments have been those when Patryk has provided some beneficial information that we didn’t even expect to receive. I value that Patryk is not afraid to voice their views and even question how things are done.”
Anna who has graduated from the Department of Language and Communication Studies in the University of Jyväskylä, has a long career in global communications roles. She seconds Patryk's view that at ABB, there are many interesting positions for non-technical interns and professionals.
“We need a variety of experts with a diverse background and experience to succeed. Our audience is global, and with a diverse workforce we gain a broader perspective and experience, foster innovation and complement each other to serve our customers in the best possible way,“ Anna stresses.
Both encourage students to see ABB's open positions for summer interns and apply, on February 12 at the latest.
Living the values
Patryk has moved to Finland from Poland. Earlier they have worked in academic research project and participated in various social movements.
“Working with ABB has differed a lot from activities I have been involved in so far,” Patryk describes. Patryk feels that the ABB values of Courage, Care, Curiosity and Collaboration are lived in practice. “People have welcomed me so warmly and I have the freedom to work flexibly, and develop things to the direction I feel useful. Our manager, Tuija Elomaa-Mäenpää, cares deeply about well-being of each team member. She gives me lots of support to combine my academic and social goals in my work.“
“I greatly appreciate the encouragement and recognition that I have received from Anna and the whole team. They are the most supportive group,“ Patryk smiles. “I hope to have a chance for another summer internship with this team in order to continue collaborations in different projects and further develop myself.“
