Kai Ukkonen, Bachelor of Maritime Management and Master of Engineering

Meet Kai Ukkonen, an alumnus of Novia UAS. Initially, Kai graduated with a Bachelor of Marine Technology (Master Mariner) degree in 2010, which laid the foundation for his professional career. Motivated by a desire to deepen his knowledge, he pursued and completed a Master of Engineering (Maritime Management) degree in 2024.

Kai’s career journey is marked by significant milestones. One of the most notable was his employment with the Finnish state-owned icebreaker company, Arctia, where he transitioned from working on cargo ships to icebreakers. ”That experience and specialization has dictated my career ever since,” Kai explained. Another milestone was his involvement in the newbuilding of scientific research and supply vessels for the Australian Antarctic Division, followed by a project involving three expedition cruise ships.

Currently, Kai works as a master on an ultra-luxury expedition cruise ship, primarily operating in the Polar Regions. ”My typical day consists approximately 30% of the nautical tasks, 50% of the administrate jobs and 20% of socializing and interacting with the guests onboard”, Kai says. His career has been significantly influenced by his experience with ice navigation, a specialty in the maritime field that he takes great pride in.

”Ice navigation is a specialty in the maritime field of which we should be proud of in Finland”."Sometimes you have to be patient but as long as you have your own goal clear, focus on it. It is Possible that you do not always have everything in life working according to the pre-written script, but I belive that we all can master the direction of our future at the end"

Throughout his career, Kai has held several leadership positions, culminating in his current role where he oversees a crew of 220 people. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all departments work together towards common goals. One of the most important lessons he has gained is to keep an open mind and continuously strive to learn.

”Keep your mind open and keep on learning all the time. If there is something, you do not know, ask or find out yourself. People providing solutions are usually appreciated over the people just raising the problems”.

Kai highlights the unique qualities required for success in the cruise industry, such as managing a large crew and interacting with guests.

”My best motivators are the happy guests whose life we can enrich with experiences and memories that will last for their lifetime”.

He believes that a leadership role on a cruise ship requires an interest in working with people and a willingness to develop oneself in this field. Kai is committed to continuous development and lifelong learning, with plans to further deepen his knowledge in maritime economics.

This motivation pushes him to deliver his best and create a positive atmosphere among the crew. Looking ahead, Kai envisions a bright future for the cruise industry, particularly in the expedition cruise segment, which he believes has significant growth potential.

Reflecting on his journey, Kai is most proud of his children and his professional achievements at a relatively young age.

”Professionally I would say that it has taken a lot of me to achieve my current position at this age (41) that I am. Not everybody always realizes that how much many people are contributing to achieve things that seem obvious looking from the outside”.

Balancing his professional life with personal interests and hobbies is challenging, but Kai makes the most of his time both on and off the ship. 

Kai’s advice to prospective students or graduates looking to pursue a similar career path, is to never give up, continue learning, and follow your dreams.

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