Juha Siltanen, who heads Patria’s avionics workshop, has experience from many companies. In his view, Patria offers the best conditions for getting the job done.

Patria has an avionics workshop in Jämsä’s Halli, which is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the Defence Forces’ aircraft electronics and electrical equipment, from Hornet fighters to helicopters.

Juha started work as the workshop line manager in January 2025. Having built his career in the forestry and metal industries, Juha says he stumbled upon the open position at Patria by chance.
– Although I had never worked in aviation before, Juha says he became interested after finishing his military service with the Air Force unit at Tikkakoski.

Juha got the job and has been more than satisfied that he applied to Patria. He has worked for several companies during his career, and believes Patria offers the best environment for performing his duties. According to Siltanen, Patria also stands out as a good employer in other respects.
– I value openness and, for example, the fact that upcoming changes are communicated well in advance. People at Patria also appreciate the flexibility of working hours, which makes it easier to balance work and personal life.

– The most rewarding part of the job is achieving our targets. And it’s even better if we manage to exceed the production goals.

Meaningful work in aviation

Juha originally trained as a paper process operator and began his career at a paper mill. After a few years, he trained as a machinist and moved into the metal industry.
After completing a specialist vocational qualification in technology alongside his work, he moved into supervisory roles.

At Patria’s avionics workshop, Juha manages a team of 25 employees and is dedicated to maintaining optimal working conditions. His responsibilities include personnel resourcing, cost control, and the continuous improvement of operational processes.
– Supervisory work is constant interaction with people. That’s something I really enjoy.

Juha sees a line manager as vital in building team spirit and trust. He considers it crucial to be involved in the daily operations of the workshop, paying attention and addressing issues before they become serious.
– The most rewarding part of the job is achieving our targets. And it’s even better if we manage to exceed the production goals.

– Our work is also meaningful. The avionics workshop plays its part in ensuring that aircraft are operational and safe to fly.

I’ve led teams in many companies, but at Patria’s avionics workshop, the level of personnel expertise is truly exceptional.

Patria people are highly skilled

Avionics refers to the electronic systems used in aircraft, such as communication, navigation, and radar equipment. Patria’s workshop also services, for example, infrared and thermal cameras used in aircraft.

The workshop is divided into smaller teams that focus on different areas of avionics, such as radar equipment or radio receivers. The fitters and specialists have extensive experience in their own areas of expertise.
– I’ve led teams in many companies, but at Patria’s avionics workshop, the level of personnel expertise is truly exceptional. Everyone here has deep and extensive experience. Many team members have decades of experience in avionics.

The line manager’s task is to ensure that work is carried out according to regulations. Like the rest of aviation, the maintenance and repair of avionics equipment is strictly regulated. Only qualified personnel are permitted to carry out tasks in accordance with approved maintenance instructions. Accurate documentation of work is also essential.

In his spare time, Juha enjoys a variety of fishing activities, mainly in the waters of Central and Northern Finland. By netting and trolling, he catches fish such as zander and pike from the lakes. In rapids, he goes after salmonids.
– So far, the most exciting catch on my fishing trips has been a 7.3 kilogram lake salmon from Lake Pyhäjärvi in Saarijärvi. Landing such a whopper really got the adrenaline pumping at the end of the rod.

Text: Matti Remes

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