“I want to build my company my way” – Miina, 30, articulated lorry driver

Video: Miina Soini – Hyppää kyytiin

Miina Soini is a 30-year-old articulated lorry driver from Savo. She describes herself as a “horse girl” who never originally planned to end up in the transport industry at all. Her sister talked her into giving it a try, and that’s how it started. Now Miina is building her own haulage company and loves her job.

Miina’s story shows that the transport and logistics sector suits all kinds of people. You don’t have to fit any particular mould.

You can end up in the industry when you least expect it

Miina says straight out that she never expected to end up working in this industry. Her sister talked her into trying it though, and the experience changed everything. This is familiar to many people in the industry: hardly anyone dreamed of becoming a driver as a kid, but once they found the job, it just felt right.

That’s exactly why a TET placement is so valuable. It gives you the chance to try the industry out with no strings attached and see for yourself whether the work feels right.

Being a woman in the transport industry

In the video, Miina speaks openly about what it’s like being a woman in a male-dominated industry. Her experience has been positive: “Most of them have been really lovely, really supportive, and have genuinely welcomed having a woman around.” No one’s ever complained about a woman being around “among the lads”.

The transport and logistics sector needs all kinds of people. Gender doesn’t matter, as long as your attitude and skills are right.

Entrepreneurship and freedom

Miina’s goal is to build her own haulage company that’s truly her own. She wants a company that reflects her own values: meaningful work, decent pay, and time for hobbies and free time.

“My job’s great, I enjoy it, and there’s just the right amount of it. You get decent pay for it and you can still keep up your hobbies,” Miina says.

The transport and logistics sector also offers opportunities for entrepreneurship. You can start out as a driver and build your own company over time. The path from employee to entrepreneur is very common in the industry.

What does an articulated lorry driver do?

An articulated lorry driver drives a tractor unit and trailer together. The job requires a CE driving licence and specific skill, since the vehicle is large and needs careful handling. The work is independent and responsible, and every load is different.

Articulated lorry drivers transport all kinds of goods: food, building materials, machinery and much more. The industry offers variety and the chance to see different parts of Finland.

Frequently asked questions

Can women succeed in the transport industry?

Absolutely. Miina’s experience is a good example. The industry has changed a lot, and diversity is valued today. What matters most is skill and attitude.

How do you become an articulated lorry driver?

You’ll need a CE driving licence and professional competence (CPC). Training is available at vocational colleges across Finland. Studies typically take 2–3 years.

Can you run your own business in the transport industry?

Yes, and it’s very common. Many drivers set up their own company once they’ve built up enough experience and contacts.

Try it yourself

Miina’s story proves that you can end up in the transport and logistics sector from any starting point. You don’t need a finished plan – all it takes is giving it a try.

Find a TET placement and try the industry yourself. A TET placement could be the experience that changes your path.

Want to hear more stories from professionals in the industry? Watch all the videos.