Arctic Six Chair position supports Arctic cooperation and research
Osmo Kauppila serves as the head of the degree program in industrial engineering and management, deputy director of the unit, and university lecturer in process and quality management. Kauppila is the Arctic Six Chair in the field of quality engineering for the years 2024–2026.
"I conduct research on a fairly broad scale, the common factor in the research is the use of quantitative methods."
Recently, Kauppila's research has focused on quality management, supply chain management, and resilience. Additionally, generative artificial intelligence has been a prominent topic in recent years.
"It's incredibly interesting, and the university must at least stay up-to-date."
According to Kauppila, generative artificial intelligence will impact the job descriptions of future quality engineers, necessitating new pedagogical solutions.
Developing the Competitiveness of Arctic Regions
In Arctic regions, distances are long, resources are scarce, and globally expensive. Methods of industrial engineering, such as quality management and the development of circular economy, can enhance the competitiveness of Arctic regions in global markets. According to Kauppila, quantitative methods are important.
"With numerical quantitative methods, we can make these challenges and successes visible through metrics. And when they are visible, they are easier to consider in decision-making."
Arctic Cooperation
The Arctic Six Chair role has supported Kauppila in research and teaching activities, as well as in building project funding and international cooperation. The role is flexible in nature and allows for the development of new initiatives within Arctic networks.
"In fact, the encouragement to apply for this Arctic Six Chair role originally came from Luleå, where I serve as an adjunct professor and visiting researcher."
According to Kauppila, Arctic Six offers a unique opportunity to look beyond one's own scientific field and everyday life, promoting interdisciplinary cooperation and building trust.
"For the success of Finland and the entire Arctic region, it is crucial that we know how to cooperate, find common denominators, and develop international networks."