On 9 December 2022, the President of the Republic of Finland granted the honorary title of Economic Counsellor (talousneuvos) to Pentti Kettunen, Chairman of Tehomet’s Board of Directors. The proposal was submitted by Tehomet’s CEO, Jarkko Kettunen, and supported by a wide range of organizations and individuals, including the Municipality of Kangasniemi, the Kangasniemi Music Festival, Kangasniemen Palloilijat, Kangasniemen Kalske Ry, Etelä-Savon Yrittäjät Ry, as well as former Mayor Pekka Toivonen.
“This kind of recognition is naturally very heartwarming. It’s great to see that the work I’ve done has been appreciated,” said Pentti Kettunen upon receiving the honorary title.
A Lifelong Contribution to Tehomet and Finnish Industry
Tehomet was originally founded by Pentti and Airi Ursin. Pentti joined the company in the early 1980s, beginning in marketing before being appointed CEO in 1988. Two years later, ownership of the company passed to the Kettunen family.
Under Pentti’s leadership, Tehomet shifted focus toward the design and manufacture of lighting poles and arms. The company’s resilience was tested during the severe 1990s recession, when its loans exceeded annual turnover. Thanks to large-scale lighting projects by the Finnish Road Administration and Tehomet’s strategic decision to specialize in decorative lighting poles, the company emerged stronger than ever.
Recognitions and Awards
Throughout Pentti Kettunen’s tenure, Tehomet has earned multiple awards that highlight its sustained growth and industry excellence:
- Kangasniemi Entrepreneur of the Year (1996)
- Hot-dip Galvanizing Award of the Year (1999)
- Regional Entrepreneur of the Year (2000)
- Finland’s National Entrepreneur Award (2006)
- JCI Finland Vientitykki Award (2009) for international success
- Etelä-Savon Maakunnan Vahvin (2014) from Suomen Asiakastieto Oy
Generational Change and Ongoing Influence
In 2012, a generational change took place at Tehomet: Jarkko Kettunen became CEO while Pentti transitioned to the role of Chairman of the Board and advisor. Even today, he maintains a strong interest in the lighting pole industry, actively supporting Tehomet and nurturing relationships with clients and partners.
Reflecting on his journey, Pentti emphasizes the importance of his roots:
“I was fortunate to have been born in Kangasniemi. This place has given me a good foundation for life, and now I get to live here surrounded by my family, my friends and the other important people in my life.”
He also credits his mother, who raised him as a single parent, and his wife Päivi, who provided unwavering support both at home and in business.
This recognition not only celebrates Pentti Kettunen’s career, but also underscores Tehomet’s role as a resilient and innovative family company that has left a mark on Finnish industry and international markets.
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