My passion is supporting human performance in safety-critical domains. My expertise is grounded in decades of experience in maritime search and rescue, extensive research and development work, and a strong commitment to improving safety and performance in demanding operational environments.
As a Human Factors (HF) specialist, I have worked with safety and HF development in the rescue sector, other industries, and among public authorities. My professional background also includes extensive experience in communications and media, providing a strong foundation for facilitating cooperation, knowledge sharing, and coordinated action across organisations and professional disciplines.
My particular interest is in understanding and developing the systemic mastery of HF. I have focused on this topic throughout my career, examining how individual, team, technological, and organisational factors interact to influence performance and safety.
In June 2026, I defended my doctoral dissertation on Human Factors at the University of Vaasa, School of Management. My dissertation, Supporting the High-Speed Workboat Cockpit Work Operations with the Mastery of Human Factors: How to Ensure the System Performance and Safety?, examined how the systemic mastery of Human Factors can contribute to improved system performance and operational safety in high-speed workboat operations.
In addition to my research expertise, I am trained in occupational health and safety management and as a Crew Resource Management (CRM) trainer. I combine academic research with extensive practical experience in safety-critical operations, training, organisational development, and applied HF.
I am currently a Senior Researcher at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK), where I work on research, development, and innovation activities.
Feel free to contact us if your organisation needs a reliable partner to develop the mastery of human factors!
Education
Doctor of Philosophy (Human Factors, Admin.), University of Vaasa
Master of Administrative Sciences, HTM / MSc, University of Vaasa 2020
TSPK 78. Occupational Safety and Health Manager Course (EurOSHM), Finnish Institute of Occupational Health 2020
Crew Resource Management Trainer (EASA, FAA, ICAO), 2022
Experience
Senior researcher, Vaasa University of Applied Sciences
Human factors and safety specialist/consultant, Mikko Lehtimäki Oy
HF specialist, Finnish Lifeboat Institution
Communications specialist, Mikko Lehtimäki Oy
Voluntary search and rescue boat coxswain, Finnish Lifeboat Institution
CV available upon request.