Siili Solutions: Business Design Lead Emma Halmekoski Reflects on IT Career

Helsinki – Emma Halmekoski, Business Design Lead at Siili Solutions, brings over two decades of experience in software and technology development. Halmekoski began her career at one of the earliest companies offering website development and has since worked in industries including gaming, media, and advertising. She views the IT industry as pivotal for building the future.

Halmekoski's work has focused on meaningful projects, particularly those involving charities and young people. She highlights her desire to use her skills to make people's lives easier and promote sustainable development. At Siili, she has found opportunities to pursue these goals.

"I have had the opportunity to do work at Siili that makes me happy," Halmekoski states. She started her tenure while pregnant, but felt she was treated fairly and supported throughout her parental leave. Although her background in content and marketing initially differed from the typical designer profile, her diverse skillset has been effectively utilized.

Commenting on equality issues within the IT sector, Halmekoski notes having experienced discrimination from women as well as men, but generally observes improving attention to equality in working life. She emphasizes that Siili treats individuals equally regardless of gender, age, or background. She views International Women's Day as a crucial reminder of global inequality and the ongoing need to advance women's and girls' rights worldwide.

Halmekoski hopes to see more women in corporate leadership roles and stresses the need for pay equity. She also points to the insufficient wages in female-dominated sectors, such as early childhood education, relative to the demands and importance of the work.