Signal Session 2/2026 highlighted the rapidly accelerating impact of technological transformation on the economy, working life, and skills. The core message of the event was clear: technology does not merely change functions – it reshapes entire systems, requiring simultaneous foresight, investments, skills, and collaboration.
Technological transformation is changing everything – and fast
Technological development is transforming the ways we work, the skills required, and the structures of the economy at an unprecedented pace. Traditional education pathways are no longer sufficient; alongside them, flexible, work-life-oriented competence models and continuous learning are needed.
Critical technologies at the core of growth and security
In her presentation, Ella Palo from Sitra examined how critical technologies can strengthen both economic growth and societal resilience in a changing world. She described how these technologies are becoming increasingly intertwined with economic growth, geopolitics, and security. The EU is striving for strategic autonomy and reduced dependencies but faces challenges related to investment gaps and a shortage of skilled professionals.
Finland holds a strong position particularly in digital technologies, such as:
- 5G/6G and connectivity
- artificial intelligence and supercomputing
- quantum technology and cybersecurity
Key takeaway: True competitiveness emerges from the convergence of technologies—not from individual solutions.
Presentation by Ella Palo, Sitra
Artificial intelligence is transforming health and social care – the potential is significant
Jouni Kaartinen from VTT presented the PROFIT project, which develops data- and AI-based solutions to improve efficiency in the health and social care sector and enhance employee well-being. The impacts of AI in the sector are already tangible:
- time savings of up to 30–40% (especially in documentation)
- improved decision support and optimization of care pathways
- more time for client and patient interaction
In the future, AI will increasingly support preventive services, remote care, and home care, enabling a transformation of the entire system—not just incremental efficiency gains.
Major opportunities – but also critical risks
The most significant challenges related to AI include:
- data quality and availability
- data protection and trust
- regulation and transparency
- adequacy of skills
Key takeaway: AI is not merely a technological issue but requires broad systemic change within the health and social care sector.
Presentation by Jouni Kaartinen:
Skills as a bottleneck – ecosystems and pilots as accelerators
Discussions at the event emphasized that skills are the most critical enabler of technological transformation—and at the same time the greatest bottleneck. There is a need for:
- a broad upgrade in skills levels
- new types of education solutions
- closer links between education and working life
Participants identified the following as key accelerators to ensure that technological development supports well-being and growth:
- bold experimentation and piloting
- concrete use cases, especially for SMEs
- breaking down silos and strengthening ecosystems
Message from Southwest Finland: engage more boldly
From a regional perspective, the need emerged to:
- strengthen participation in EU-level projects
- leverage existing regional strengths
- increase piloting and practical implementation
Technological transformation offers significant growth potential, but unlocking it requires simultaneous investments in skills, foresight, collaboration, and innovation.
Further information:
Esa Högblom, Regional Council of Southwest Finland
Ira Ahokas, University of Turku