From Intern to Simulation Specialist: Tuomas Huikko builds versatile expertise through an eagerness to learn

Hi, Tuomas! Would you tell us something about yourself and your study background?

I started my studies at Tampere University initially focusing on software engineering. After my second year I got a summer internship at Magister and have since continued to work here, starting part-time and eventually becoming a full-time employee.  

I have been steadily advancing my studies alongside my work, focusing almost equally on both software engineering and RF communication systems for a balanced skillset. Additionally, I took up machine learning/AI as a minor subject in my Master’s studies.

What’s your role at Magister and what kind of tasks does it entail? 

I work as a simulation specialist/researcher. This includes a wide range of different tasks. Typically, our work is project-based, so the tasks follow the phase of the project.

The typical project starts with establishing requirements for the simulator, which is followed by researching the current literature and specifications to see how those requirements should be approached.  

Next, we start designing and implementing the necessary features to our simulators. The changes are documented and tested. Finally, we run simulations in an iterative process, analyse the results and report any findings and recommendations based on the results.  

Occasionally, we prepare and submit articles as part of a project or after it’s been completed. This can include attending conferences to present the work, which is also a good opportunity to keep up with current developments in the industry. 

What do you find especially interesting in your field right now? 

I think it will be very interesting to see how AI is included as a native part of the satellite network and how this will be achieved in practice. I imagine it will be challenging to gather enough high-quality training data to actually implement AI as a part of operational networks. 

Also, the growing size of LEO “mega-constellations” makes the environment even more dynamic and challenging to manage. 

What kind of projects would you like to work on in the future?

I would like to keep working with a wide range of different topics to further my understanding and continuously learn new things.  

However, having mentioned AI/ML earlier, integrating AI/ML models to our simulations would perhaps be the most interesting single topic.  

What’s it like to work at Magister? 

Magister has a friendly atmosphere. It’s easy to send a message or walk by a desk if you need to discuss something. I’m still kind of starting out in my career so I definitely appreciate having such experienced, skilled, and knowledgeable colleagues.  

A major benefit of working at Magister has been the opportunity to work remotely with flexible hours, which has enabled me to pursue my studies effectively alongside work.  

I have learned a lot from working at Magister, arguably even more than in my studies – or at least gained more practical experience.  

What about your free time – how do you like to balance out work? 

Some of my time is spent working on my studies as I am still trying to finish them. Outside of that, mostly I like to spend time with my friends.  

One of my favourite get-togethers is going to the summer cottage, warming up the sauna, making good food, and taking it easy. I like to semi-regularly play badminton as a form of exercise.